The Pantry's Secret Weapon?

At Oak Park River Forest Food Pantry, volunteers and donors work together every day to fight hunger in our communities. What you might not know is how much of the great work we do is “kid-powered.”

During fiscal year 2016, 305 young people under 18 volunteered at the Pantry serving as valets, sorting donations, working as shopping assistants, recycling cardboard and so much more to keep our operations running smoothly. Collectively, kids have contributed over 3,000 hours of time over the course of the year, essentially doing the work of 2 full-time staff!

Kids don’t just offer their labor; they provide literally tons of food.  During this year's CAN DO Community Challenge, 100% of Oak Park and River Forest public schools competed to collect the most food and funds.   Brooks Middle School took home the trophy, with Julian Middle School, and Holmes Elementary School rounding out the top 3.  In addition, the Oak Park and River Forest Hockey Club and Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana coordinate two of the biggest annual food drives, feeding thousands of families during the busiest holiday months. 

The kids say it’s worth all the work.  Anna, a Girl Scout volunteer, summed up the feeling for many of the kids who power our work, “I like feeling we can help people.” 
During 2016 many of us have been worrying about the future, but here at the Pantry, it looks like the future is in good hands. 

View FY2016 Annual Report