Northern Illinois Food Bank: Empowering Neighbors for 40 Years

Northern Illinois Food Bank started 40 years ago, in 1983, when Sister Rosemarie Burian had a vision of bringing people together to solve the problem of hunger. She found people who shared that commitment and they worked together to start Bethlehem Center, which later became Northern Illinois Food Bank. From humble beginnings, that team, many other leaders, staff and volunteers since then, have innovated again and again toward the goal of ensuring everyone in Northern Illinois has the food they need to thrive. There is more work to be done to achieve that goal! We are all neighbors, and we can each work toward Sister Rosemarie’s vision of a hunger-free community!
“It’s not what’s in your pocket, but what’s in your heart that expresses life.”
– Sister Rosemarie Burian, Founder of Northern Illinois Food Bank






Brew for a Cause

Our friends at Wolfden Brewing are helping celebrate our 40th Anniversary by creating a special brew: THRIVE, a Fruit Basket Hazy IPA with Mango, Peach, and Strawberry. A portion of proceeds from the sale of this beer will be donated back to the Food Bank. Starting Saturday, June 10th you’ll be able to grab a can or pint to enjoy!
Share a Food Bank Memory or Story!
Northern Illinois Food Bank Stories
A place for Neighbors to share stories and memories of Northern Illinois Food Bank over the past 40 years.