On behalf of our entire team, we wish you – our clients, volunteers, and supporters – safety, health and peace during this trying time. During the COVID-19 crisis, we will post weekly updates about our programs and any important news we have to share. Included at the end of this post are the ways you can support the Pantry.

As the last few weeks became busier than ever, demand for food has increased more than 300% (by individuals served). Please see below for more details on our COVID-19 response by the numbers. Nourishing Hope is committed to serving Chicagoans in need during the COVID-19 crisis. Not only are we helping the most vulnerable populations in our community, but as businesses of all kinds close their doors in response to COVID-19, many have been forced to turn to a food pantry for the first time. It will take all of us to step up, chip in, and lend a hand to weather this unprecedented emergency – together.

Agency-Wide
Client Updates
  • Our Online Market pickup hours have expanded to provide even greater flexibility and choice for our clients! Pickup times are now available:
    The Hub (5151 N. Ravenswood Ave.): Thursdays: 2 – 7pm, Fridays: 12 – 4pm (New!), Saturdays: 12 – 3pm
    Sheridan Market (3945 N. Sheridan Rd.): Thursdays: 12:30 – 2:30pm
    Specific pickup windows are selected during the registration process.
  • Our Fresh Market at La Casa Norte is now open on Tuesdays from 11am – 3pm, in addition to Mondays and Wednesdays! Grocery pickup at this site follows a similar distribution model as Sheridan and Wrigley Field.
Staff Updates
  • We welcome back one of our former Social Services interns, Layne Hardy, as a temporary Pantry Coordinator! We’re so grateful for his help and generosity during this time.
  • We’ve also hired temporary staff members Hannah Cousins to assist with our Online Market, and Courtney Frederick to assist with our Development team! Welcome aboard!
Volunteer Updates

How to Support Our Work
  • Donate: We have a critical and ongoing need for financial contributions to keep our neighbors healthy and fed. Every $1 provides 8 meals – click here to make a gift now!
  • Volunteer: As we anticipate the need for food increasing in the coming weeks, we will need the help of healthy volunteers to help us pack groceries, sort food, and other essential tasks for our most vulnerable communities. Currently, all volunteer orientation sessions are being held virtually. New volunteers should email [email protected] to receive a video orientation link and steps to become an active Nourishing Hope volunteer. Existing volunteers should continue to follow standard procedures to sign up for shifts.
  • In-kind contributions: Donating food to help stock our shelves will be essential. Many food donations from our grocery partners have sharply declined, and our supply costs are likely to increase. Our most-needed items this week are listed below. For more information on in-kind donations, please contact Bill Thomas, Chief Operating Officer, at [email protected].
    • Peanut butter
    • Canned tuna
    • Canned vegetables
    • Canned fruit
    • Canned beans

Thank you for your patience, understanding, and support during this time of uncertainty. Follow us on social media for the latest from Nourishing Hope and updates from the front lines of the fight against hunger: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

Take care and stay well,
The Nourishing Hope Team