Corporate partners donate 15,000 lbs. of food to Northern Illinois Food Bank

For the fifth year in a row, Walmart, Bimbo Bakeries USA and Tyson Foods have joined forces to help end hunger across the United States.

The three companies donated 15,000 pounds of food - equating to 12,500 meals - to Northern Illinois Food Bank in Geneva through a partnership with Feeding America.

Food insecurity increased throughout the pandemic, and Feeding America food banks - like Northern Illinois Food Bank - struggled to keep up with demand.

Representatives from each of the organizations visited Northern Illinois Food Bank to volunteer, deliver the donation and tour the facility.

As part of this partnership, Walmart, Bimbo Bakeries USA and Tyson Foods donated 5,000 pounds of bread and 10,000 pounds of protein that will be given to individuals and families over the coming weeks.

"We are so thankful to our corporate partners for this generous donation," said Chris White, Chief Operating Officer, Northern Illinois Food Bank.

"The pandemic has been extra difficult for families, many of whom never thought they'd be in this situation. Donations like this help us keep up with the increased demand brought on by the pandemic and ensure that no one goes hungry."

Northern Illinois Food Bank brings together manufacturers, local and corporate grocers, area farmers, corporations, foundations, and individuals who donate food and funding. Each week nearly 900 volunteers help evaluate, repack and distribute food.

The Northern Illinois Food Bank services 13 counties, providing 250,000 meals per day. It is a proud member of Feeding America.

Through its partnerships and individual donations, Feeding America - the largest domestic hunger relief organization in the United States - provides food to millions of Americans through a network of 200 member food banks and 60,000 partner agencies.

For more on the Northern Illinois Food Bank, go to solvehungertoday.org or www.facebook.com/northernilfoodbank.