Arlington Heights parish hosts food drive to help families in need
The COVID-19 pandemic has created not only an unprecedented demand on suburban food pantries, but also unprecedented challenges to the task of safely acquiring items for those in need.
St. Edna Food Pantry Outreach Ministry and Knights of Columbus Holy Rosary Council #4483 in Arlington Heights addressed that challenge Sunday with a no-contact food drive to restock the parish's pantry.
"This is the biggest turnout by far," volunteer Shirley Boustead said Sunday, as she organized donations from the drive.
Donors pulled up their vehicles in the church's parking lot, where volunteers unloaded items like canned foods, snacks and paper towels.
"I'm glad to see the parishioners helping out. Great turnout of people," said volunteer Sam Marsillo.
The St. Edna pantry provides food to more than 100 needy individuals and families every month, both in the parish community and its sharing parish, St. James in Chicago.