Amazon donates $100,000 to area food banks on Cyber Monday

As Amazon ramps up operations during one of its busiest times of the year, the company is also giving back to communities facing increased food insecurity.

On Cyber Monday, Amazon presented area food banks with a combined $100,000 donation, including support for the Northern Illinois Food Bank, helping provide meals to families struggling to make ends meet during the holiday season.

The check presentation was held at the Amazon facility located at 1260 N. Kostner St. in Chicago, where delivery drivers lined up to load vans with packages for doorsteps across the area. Inside, team members worked to fulfill the surge in online shopping orders but just miles away, food pantries are seeing a different kind of demand.

“Our lines have never been longer than they are right now, and Amazon recognizes we need help,” said Chris Gillette of the Northern Illinois Food Bank. “This donation comes at a critical time for families who are having trouble putting food on the table.”

While the holiday shopping season brings excitement for many, it also underscores the challenges facing households impacted by rising costs and economic uncertainty. The Northern Illinois Food Bank continues working around the clock to meet growing need across its service area.

At the same time, Amazon has expanded its workforce to keep up with record demand. The company hired thousands of seasonal employees nationwide, with some positions expected to become permanent after the holidays.

“This is an exciting season all around because we were able to introduce new seasonal positions,” said Tarsha Hall of Amazon. “Right now, the site has employed an additional 200 people.”

Amazon’s donation helps ensure that families facing hunger can also experience support during the season of giving.

For more information about Northern Illinois Food Bank, visit SolveHungerToday.org.