Elk Grove Township food pantry addresses SNAP gap
In response to recent delays and changes in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, Elk Grove Township has expanded its food pantry hours.
It has also implemented temporary changes in its shopping guidelines to make sure residents can continue accessing essential food and household items.
The pantry is a critical resource for households experiencing food insecurity.
It uses a “Client’s Choice” model that allows families to select the groceries, fresh produce and personal items that best fit their needs.
The food pantry recorded 1,141 visits in October alone, and demand is expected to grow as the holiday season approaches.
“The township remains committed to doing all we can to serve as the safety net our residents rely on during challenging times,” Township Supervisor John Scaletta said. “We know how deeply these SNAP benefit delays are affecting families, and we’ve expanded our services to meet those needs.”
Hours will be as follows, effective immediately: 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday; 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Wednesday; 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday; and 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Friday.
Extended Thursday evening hours will remain in place indefinitely to provide greater flexibility for working individuals and families.
Registered food pantry clients who cannot visit during regular hours may access the township’s refrigerated food pantry lockers, located at the west entrance, 600 Landmeier Road, Elk Grove Village. Lockers provide secure, flexible pickup options, including evenings and weekends.
Temporary shopping guidelines, effective immediately, are as follows:
- Households of four or more people can shop in-person twice per month, plus receive one additional pre-pack visit each month.
- Households of three or fewer people may shop in-person once per month, plus receive one additional pre-pack visit each month.
A pre-pack visit offers clients a convenient, ready-to-pick-up package of essential food and household items, ensuring continued food stability between regular shopping visits.
These temporary measures will remain in effect until the end of November.
Residents and businesses wishing to donate can do so from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Donations can be dropped off at the township’s west entrance, and contributions are also accepted through the township’s Amazon wish list or by reviewing the most-needed items list at elkgrovetownship.com/ways-to-donate.
For questions, to register for food pantry services, or to schedule an appointment, call (224) 265-6111.