Algonquin libraries collecting donations for food pantry

The Algonquin Area Public Library District will support the Algonquin-Lake in the Hills Interfaith Food Pantry by accepting donations at the Harnish Main Library and Eastgate Branch Library throughout the month of September.

September is Hunger Action Month across America, and the library staff is taking action. The library has partnered with the Algonquin-Lake in the Hills Interfaith Food Pantry to educate the community about the pantry's needs, services, and volunteer opportunities. Both library locations have established a table near the main entrances where you can pick up wish lists for pantry donations/volunteers and drop off your nonperishable food items.

Library staff also will raise awareness for the food pantry Tuesday and Wednesday, Sept. 22 and 23, by donating money in exchange for the privilege of wearing jeans to work. Staff members will wear colorful stickers to show their support.

The district supports the remarkable efforts of the Algonquin-Lake in the Hills Interfaith Food Pantry and its efforts in serving more than 300 local families. In addition to collecting nonperishable food items, the pantry has numerous garden beds and fruit orchards to provide clients with fresh vegetables and fruits throughout the growing season. Food pantry volunteers assist the Master Gardener, staff the pantry, organize food drives and work with member churches and other organizations to help ensure adequate food supplies during a family's time of need. The pantry serves the unemployed/underemployed, the working poor, the homeless, individuals with disabilities, the elderly and children. For more information about the pantry's mission, visit www.alith-foodpantry.org.

For more information about library hours and locations, call (847) 458-6060 or visit www.aapld.org.