Trib Local, August 19, 2010

Shields Township food pantry crosses milestone

The impact of the economic downturn continues to be evident as Shields Township’s Food Pantry reported serving its 20,000th guest this week.

“This is a bittersweet milestone,” noted Gale Strenger Wayne, Shields Township Supervisor. “Bitter because there continue to be so many of our neighbors who find themselves hungry and in need of assistance, but sweet because the Food Pantry is the fortunate recipient of generous and kind acts by many donors and volunteers.”

“Each month I’m overwhelmed by the communities’ commitment to the pantry,” Strenger Wayne continued. “After all these years, contributing to the Food Pantry has become a destination donation for organizations, families and individuals. And, we’re humbled by the appreciation of those who benefit from those kindnesses.”

Recipients of the Food Pantry come from all corners of the Township, including Lake Forest, Lake Bluff, North Chicago and the unincorporated areas.

Started in 2002, the Shields Township Food Pantry is open to all residents of the township. The pantry is supported by direct donations of foodstuffs, service fees for processing passports as well as donations to the Township’s 501 (c) 3, Shields Township Phoenix Rising Foundation. Pantry hours are Wednesdays and Thursdays from 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. The pantry is located in the offices of Shields Township, 906 Muir Avenue, Lake Bluff.