Donations from Food Companies and Retailers

  • Make up 80 percent of the food Northern Illinois Food Bank distributes

  • Keeps surplus quality food out of waste streams and landfills

  • Provides our food insecure neighbors with nutritious foods

  • Offers tax benefits and cost savings for our donors

Types of Donations Welcomed

  • Shelf-stable foods (retail packed and bulk)

  • Fresh produce and dairy

  • Personal care items, diapers

  • Paper products and household cleaning supplies
  • Health and beauty products

  • Household cleaning supplies

  • Agricultural produce- farm-fresh/crop proceeds

An existing tax provision allows qualified C Corporation taxpayers (retailers, restaurants and food manufacturers) to take a charitable tax deduction for donations of fit and wholesome food to non-profit charitable organizations that serve the needy. Food donors are protected under the Bill Emerson Good Samaritan Food Donation Act to encourage companies and donors to donate healthy food that would otherwise go to waste. This previous information should be used only as a guide. Donors are advised to consult with their tax advisor in applying the appropriate deduction.

 
Donations can be delivered to our four distribution centers or arranged for pick-up. If you are unable to donate goods, monetary gifts are always welcome and support our purchasing food and distributions of nutritious foods to our community.

If your company, organization or agribusiness is interested in donating food for our neighbors in need, please contact Jacob Lamplough by email or at (630) 443-6910 ext. 140. Food can also be donated through MealConnect.