WHO IS HELPED?
The Notre Dame Food Pantry assists approximately 50 local families monthly.
We also make requested emergency deliveries to people in the area who are
experiencing a short-term financial crisis
WHERE DO THE FAMILIES LIVE?
Clarendon Hills, Westmont, Hinsdale, Oak Brook, Darien and Willowbrook.
HOW DO WE LEARN OF THE NEED?
People are usually referred to us by another area church or by a local agency
We do a full interview of circumstances, finances, etc. before providing more than a one-
time emergency assistance.
WHAT CAUSES THE NEED?
Most frequent reasons for needing assistance are: single moms, often recently abused
or abandoned by the father; recent unemployment; illness or injury; the working poor;
and seniors with limited incomes.
HOW LONG DO MOST RECEIVE OUR ASSISTANCE?
Many of the people we help are in crisis and need our help for a few months. Others,
especially those experiencing illness or injury, need help for a year or so. The seniors
and working poor often need long-term assistance.
ADDITIONAL ASSISTANCE:
Easter (holiday dinner groceries and Easter baskets), Thanksgiving (holiday dinner
groceries) and Christmas (dinner groceries and gifts)
VOLUNTEERS:
All volunteers welcome including teens, families with children and all who would like to help.
Greatest volunteer need is for people to make Saturday morning deliveries
We many other volunteer roles open
FACTS:
Our More Than Just Food extension accepts requests for furniture appliances, etc. In
2022, 53 items were donated and delivered to families.
The Food Pantry began a teens group before becoming an adult ministry.
It was originally in the old Mansion; in the actual pantry from its days as a home!
THE PROCESS:
Donated food is brought to the Food Pantry.
Donations are carefully checked for expiration dates and sorted and shelved by categories.
Twice a month, non-perishable food is packed using a packing list based on inventory.
Boxes are delivered two Saturdays a month to families.
Each family receives one delivery monthly.
A delivery consists of 2-3 boxes of non-perishable foods and other grocery store items, 1 box of
perishables (packed the morning of delivery), and 1 gallon of milk.
For more information, contact MaryAnn Fenton (630) 207-2706