A Simple Truth
It is a simple truth: when our neighbors thrive, we all thrive.
Thank you for living that truth through your generous support of Northern Illinois Food Bank this past year. In 2025, we faced new challenges as government funding declined and SNAP benefits were reduced, even while the need for food continued to rise. Yet, the strength of our community once again shone through. Thousands of neighbors, volunteers, and partners came together to ensure that kids, families, and seniors across Northern Illinois had access to nourishing food and the dignity that comes with it.
Together, we are building a more equitable and sustainable food system. Through our new Strategic Plan THRIVE, we are working to stretch every dollar, increase efficiency, and use data and technology to reach more people. We are also investing in the partnerships and volunteer power that make this work possible, because solving hunger takes all of us.
As we look ahead to 2026, I feel deep gratitude and renewed determination. There is still much to do, but with your continued partnership, we can create a future where every neighbor has the opportunity to thrive.
THANK YOU FOR BUILDING RESILIENCE
Our community faced many challenges in 2025. Hunger remained high across Northern Illinois, and changes in government policy created funding gaps for the Food Bank and economic strain for many of our neighbors.
When local support became most critical, you responded. Each time you partner with Northern Illinois Food Bank, you are part of an incredible community. Together, we provided over 89 million meals across our 13-county service area in 2025 and continued to strengthen our ability to meet the growing need.
Your support helps build equity and resilience into our food distribution system so that people can access nutritious food with dignity. Thank you for helping ensure hope and opportunity for our neighbors across Northern Illinois.
2026: A LOOK AHEAD
As changes to SNAP and other government programs take effect, our community will once again be called to reimagine how we care for one another.
Neighbors like Terry are a perfect example. We met Terry when he signed up for SNAP with the help of the Food Bank’s team. The assistance he’s received has been a lifeline, helping him access the nutritious food he needs while he recovers from an injury that left him unable to work.
“I can’t work because of my disability, but I’m trying to get better,” Terry says. “SNAP has helped me tremendously, and it’s given me a chance to keep going.” Already, six in ten food-insecure neighbors in our region are not eligible for federal benefits. That number is expected to grow as more households lose access to SNAP. For these families, the charitable food system will be their primary source of support.
Northern Illinois Food Bank is preparing for this reality through meaningful community engagement and strategic action. We are expanding local partnerships, improving processes, and investing in new technology to strengthen our network. Together, we can build a future where every neighbor has the food they need to thrive. Thank you for being part of that future.
THRIVING TOGETHER: NEIGHBORS HELPING NEIGHBORS
Tammy’s Story
Tammy is no stranger to our community. She’s lived in the area for 22 years and raised her family. Things have been tough for her lately, though. High food prices, increased rent, and family concerns mean Tammy’s paycheck isn’t spreading as far as it needs to.
Rolly’s Story
At the Woodstock Mobile Market, Rolly loads his pickup with healthy food not only for himself but also for four fellow veterans who have disabilities. He looks for milk and for food that is easy for his friends to eat and quick to prepare.
“It is getting harder and harder to make a combat pension stretch to cover all the bills,” he says.
COMING TOGETHER IN 2026
Join us for events and opportunities that strengthen our community. SolveHungerToday.org/Events
Smash Hunger Classic
Sunday, February 1 at The Picklr in Wheaton – Join us for a pickleball tournament filled with fun and friendly competition for players of every skill level.A Cup of Hope
March 1 at Abbington Banquets in Glen Ellyn – Enjoy an elegant afternoon tea featuring light bites, live entertainment, a silent auction, and a raffle, proudly sponsored by Cultivate Power.Fight Hunger 10K|5K|Fun Run
May 2 at Cantigny Park in Wheaton – Enjoy a scenic run or walk along beautiful routes, proudly sponsored by ALDI.
Advocate Health: A Partnership at the Intersection of Nutrition and Health
Advocate Health has been a valued partner of Northern Illinois Food Bank since 2017, helping expand our Build Healthy Communities program, a collaborative effort that connects nutritious food access with overall health and well-being. Together, we work to address the powerful link between nutrition and health across Northern Illinois. (continue reading)
The Executive Women’s Council: Helping Neighbors Thrive
Our annual Cup of Hope fundraiser is proudly organized and hosted by the Executive Women’s Council (EWC).
Formed in 2015, the EWC is a network of compassionate and dedicated women who partner with Northern Illinois Food Bank. Through the Cup of Hope event and other initiatives, members give their time, share their talents, and contribute food and funds to help ensure that everyone in Northern Illinois has the nourishment and resources they need to thrive.
Erin Stein has been an Executive Women’s Council member for several years. (continue reading)
Decades of Dedication, A Legacy of Service
For nearly 30 years, the St. Charles Kiwanis Club has been a steady presence at the Food Bank. This dedicated team of volunteers has shown up month after month, year after year, to pack food, providing both nutritious groceries and hope for neighbors facing food insecurity. A long-time club member, Bill Cox, shares,
“By volunteering, we enjoy the opportunity to learn and socialize with our fellow Kiwanians as well as other volunteers, and the Northern Illinois Food Bank staff. We also gain the satisfaction that we are positively supporting a defined need within our community.” (continue reading)
Volunteering Inspired a Plan for Lasting Impact
“My experience volunteering on the Board showed me that the Food Bank uses strategy in their work to make real impact and that the donations go to feeding programs, not other expenses,” Doug Eckrote explains.
Read more about why Doug chose to include Northern Illinois Food Bank in his estate plan.
