Stories

Never fighting hunger alone: Volunteer participation breaks record in 2015

Whether they’re repacking produce, sorting food drive donations, loading trucks, driving vans, advocating or raising awareness – volunteers energize our fight against hunger every single day.

A record 23,594 volunteers joined us in the fight against hunger.

SNAP team connects thousands to benefits

In fiscal year 2015-2016, the Food Depository SNAP Outreach Team connected more than 6,000 individuals to SNAP benefits, a record for the organization, which will yield more than $18 million in estimated economic impact.

Connected over 6,000 individuals to SNAP benefits.

Feeding a positive outlook for veterans

The pantries at Hines VA and Jesse Brown VA Medical Center served more than 35,500 individuals combined.

Hot meals and bags of food for 1,256 homeless veterans.

Starting the day healthy, not hungry

In Illinois, more than 1.1 million children are eligible for free or reduced-price breakfast, yet only 387,000 actually receive breakfast each day. But that’s about to change.

Expanded school breakfast programs to an additional 175,000 children.

Promoting health with produce

The Food Depository’s FRESH Truck is a walk-through produce market that partners with health clinics throughout Cook County.

Launched the FRESH Truck was in August 2015.

Food Depository launches Cook County Food Access Task Force

In January, the Greater Chicago Food Depository, in partnership with Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle, unveiled the Cook County Food Access Plan.

Strengthening the response to food insecurity in our community.

Walking to end hunger

The Food Depository’s 31st Annual Hunger Walk drew more than 11,500 people to historic Jackson Park along the shores of Lake Michigan.

Event raised more than $425,000 for partner agencies

A healthy, hunger-free summer

Every weekday, a brightly-colored sprinter van rolls up to the Belmont Cragin Library just after noon. And every day, Francisco Pacheco quietly breathes a sigh of relief as he sees the van come around the corner.

More than 560,000 meals served to children this summer.