Feeding the hungry never takes a holiday. The Maine Township Emergency Food Pantry is seeking donations from individuals, companies, and organizations to stock up on much-needed food to meet the winter demands. The pantry helps feed hundreds of families and individuals each month.
"We so appreciate the continued support of our Township communities, be they residents, businesses, or schools, churches, and local fundraisers who give so freely of either food or donations or make our food pantry the recipient of their food drives, said Laura J. Morask, Township Supervisor. "Many people generously contribute at the holidays but we would be eternally grateful for any help our pantry can get now as our immediate supplies are very low given the increased amounts of residents in need over the past months. On behalf of Maine Township I thank you all for your continuing generosity."
Any contributions of non-perishable food and money are always appreciated. The most pressing needs are for peanut butter, jelly, spaghetti sauce, canned fruit and vegetables, canned tuna, chunky soups, dry cereal, macaroni and cheese, and large cans or plastic bottles of juice especially apple, orange and grape flavors.
"Local agencies, schools, and civic organizations which organize food drives can help to meet the need," Carol Langan, Pantry Coordinator, says. Individuals and groups are encouraged to contact Langan for a copy of the full "wish list" of food donations needed. She added that those willing to support the food pantry efforts can visit the Wilderness Scouts at the Park Ridge Jewel (Greenwood Street and Busse Highway) on Dec. 5. The Countryside Saloon and Sports Bar (Ballard Road near Potter, Des Plaines) is also raising funds during Chicago Bears games through the season.
Donations may be brought to Maine Town Hall, 1700 Ballard Rd., Park Ridge on Monday-Friday between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Assistance including pick-up is available for large deliveries with advance notice.
For questions or assistance, contact the Maine Township Emergency Food Pantry at 847-297-2510 or visit the township web site www.mainetown.com.
