Cupboard is nearly bare at Milton Township pantry

Seven thousand people received food through the Milton Township pantry in the last year.

But the agency is struggling to keep its shelves stocked, and officials say they don't know how they'll continue through the year.

"We're out of money," senior caseworker Jackie Jones said.

While tax dollars cover the costs of the township and its programs, the food pantry is a separate not-for-profit agency. Its caseworkers are funded through the state and supplies are paid for through donations.

The pantry offices sit in space donated by the township, Jones said.

Annually, it takes a minimum of $20,000 to keep the pantry stocked.

While many food donations arrive from drives at schools, scouts, postal workers and churches, the pantry still must supplement its supply by purchasing items from Northern Illinois Food Bank each month at a cost of 14 cents per pound. The pantry spends between $1,200 and $1,700 monthly.

Cash donations have dwindled, however, and the food donations aren't sufficient enough to help the 500 to 600 people who use the pantry each month.

Jones said families who qualify need to prove they live in the township and have an income that's about 100 percent to 150 percent of the poverty level. An eligible family of four is allowed to stop at the pantry once a month and can take home three grocery bags full of food.

Cash donations can be dropped off at the pantry at 1492 N. Main St., Wheaton. Non-perishable food is accepted, as well as fresh fruits and vegetables.

For more information, call (630) 668-1616.