Veterans charity in North Chicago provides food for families

A long line formed Tuesday as Midwest Veterans Closet opened the grocery food truck to provide food for veterans and active-duty military.

More than 150 families were expected to be helped by the rapid response charity and the Northern Illinois Food Bank providing meat, fresh produce, dairy products, frozen foods, and canned and packaged items.

"Today, we are able to provide food for veterans and active-duty military. One in four veterans are hungry in the state of Illinois," said Barb Karacic, food pantry director for Midwest Veterans Closet. "We are just happy to be able assist and to provide a hand out to those that have served our country and done so much for us."

In addition, area first responders offered a few hundred coats, jackets and clothing to families in need.

"I think it's really, really nice. I appreciate their kindness and their giveness by them giving and caring for as veterans," former Army Sgt. Lolita Shelton of North Chicago said after she collected food staples from volunteers. "Everyone goes through tough times these days and this is really helpful giving out coats to those that need them."

The Midwest Veterans Closet, which helps veterans and military families, is at 2323 Green Bay Road in North Chicago and can be reached at (847) 354-2108, or get more information at www.midwestveteranscloset.org.