Greater Chicago Food Depository
The Greater Chicago Food Depository, founded in 1979, provides food assistance and job training across Chicago and Cook County through a network of over 800 partners.
History
Founded in 1979, the Greater Chicago Food Depository has been serving Chicago and Cook County for over four decades. Established with the mission to provide food for neighbors in need, the organization has grown to become a central hub for food distribution and support within the community. Through years of dedication and service, the Food Depository has expanded its reach and impact across the region.
Services
The Greater Chicago Food Depository provides a myriad of services to support those facing food insecurity. These include distributing food, offering job training programs, providing nutrition resources, and educating individuals on cooking and healthy eating. The organization also runs a mobile pantry program to ensure access to food in underserved areas and advocates for public policy changes to reduce hunger.
Network and Partnerships
Operating a robust network of over 800 food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters, and other community partners, the Greater Chicago Food Depository plays a crucial role in the region. These partnerships enable the efficient distribution of food and resources to a vast number of individuals and families in need throughout Chicago and Cook County. The organization works collaboratively to maximize the reach and effectiveness of their services.
Food Distribution
In fiscal year 2021, the Greater Chicago Food Depository distributed more than 117 million pounds of food. This substantial volume underscores the scale of their operations and the critical need they fulfill within the community. The distributed food supports a variety of programs designed to assist children, families, and older adults, ensuring that all members of the community have access to nutritious food.
Volunteer Opportunities
The Greater Chicago Food Depository offers numerous volunteer opportunities for individuals and groups. Volunteers play an essential role in the organization's operations, from sorting and packing food to helping with mobile pantry distributions. These opportunities enable community members to contribute directly to the fight against hunger and support their neighbors in need.