As the federal government shutdown continues, Chicago families, especially furloughed workers and those depending on SNAP benefits, are feeling its impact.
Chicago Parent has compiled a list of local resources for families needing food support, as well as volunteer opportunities for those who want to help their neighbors during this time.
According to the Greater Chicago Food Depository, 1 in 5 households with children in Cook County experiences food insecurity. With uncertainty around paychecks and federal nutrition programs, food banks and community nonprofits are preparing for increased demand in the weeks ahead.
Below are organizations offering free food, donation drop-offs and volunteer shifts across Chicago.
Emergency school and senior meal programs
Chicago Public Schools and the Chicago Department of Family & Support Services offer meals to ensure kids and seniors stay nourished during service interruptions.
CPS student meal sites
• Grab & Go meals available on weekdays
• No ID required
Senior congregate dining
• Low-cost or no-cost meals at senior centers
• Transportation support in some areas
When in doubt, call 3-1-1 for meal site locations near you.
Greater Chicago Food Depository
- Address: 4100 W. Ann Lurie Place, Chicago
- Phone: (773) 247-3663
- Area served: Cook County
- How to receive food: Use “Find Food” locator at chicagosfoodbank.org/find-food
- How to donate: Online or drop-off nonperishables at warehouse collection bins
- How to volunteer: Sort and pack food in warehouse or support community distributions
- Accepts: Fresh produce, canned goods, baby items and hygiene essentials
Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago
- Address: Multiple pantry sites citywide (main office: 721 N. LaSalle St., Chicago)
- Phone: (312) 655-7700
- Area served: Chicago and nearby suburbs
- How to receive food: Mobile food pantries and neighborhood sites listed at catholiccharities.net
- How to donate: Financial gifts or shelf-stable food accepted
- How to volunteer: Assist with pantry shifts, meals or family support services
Lakeview Pantry (Doing business as Nourishing Hope)
- Address: 3945 N. Sheridan Road, Chicago
- Phone: (773) 525-1777
- Area served: North Side neighborhoods
- How to receive food: Walk-in markets and online grocery ordering at nourishinghopechi.org
- How to donate: Online or drop-off nonperishables at pantry
- How to volunteer: Food distribution, home deliveries and personal shoppers
The Love Fridge
- Address: Pick-up refrigerators throughout Chicago (log map online)
- Area served: All neighborhoods
- How to receive food: Take what you need from any community fridge — available 24/7
- How to donate: Stock fridges with fresh produce, milk, bread and snacks
- How to volunteer: Host fridge clean-ups or coordinate deliveries
Pilsen Food Pantry
- Address: 2124 S Ashland Ave., Chicago
- Phone: (773) 812-3150
- Area served: Pilsen and surrounding neighborhoods
- How to receive food: Weekly food pick-ups — hours listed at pilsenfoodpantry.com
- How to donate: Nonperishable food, diapers and hygiene items
- How to volunteer: Pantry sorting, bag packing and distribution help
Swipe Out Hunger – Local College Support
- Address: Partnerships with Chicago universities
- Area served: College students facing food insecurity
- How to receive food: Check student services at participating campuses
- How to donate or volunteer: Campus-based pantry support
Quick Links
- Find Food Near You — chicagosfoodbank.org/find-food
- Volunteer at Greater Chicago Food Depository — chicagosfoodbank.org/volunteer
- Donate to Nourishing Hope — nourishinghopechi.org/donate
- City of Chicago Food Assistance — chicago.gov/dfss
How you can help today
Even small actions go far when millions of families are struggling:
- Donate pantry staples and baby items
- Volunteer for a morning distribution shift
- Host a mini food drive at work or school
- Share this article with a friend who may need support
Chicago has always shown its strength through community and care — especially in tough times. Together, we can ensure our neighbors have the support they need.
