Culver's of St. Charles collecting toys for neighborhood food pantries in West Chicago

According to Feeding America, 1 in 8 Americans struggles with hunger, leaving millions of people, including families living right here in the western suburbs, to seek assistance from their local food pantry. And while food has become an unaffordable luxury to many throughout our community, so too are toys during the upcoming holidays.

This season, Culver's of St. Charles has earmarked children of the Neighborhood Food Pantries of West Chicago's clientele as recipients of its holiday toy drive.

Throughout the Chicago area, more than 30 Culver's restaurant locations will be hosting toy drives for local food pantries, hospitals and organizations that support children in need. As a fifth-year initiative, Culver's continues its tradition of spreading holiday cheer.

"As Americans, we call our network of food pantries and soup kitchens the last line of defense against hunger," said Culver's of St. Charles owner Scott Martenson.

"Thankfully, Neighborhood Food Pantries is here to support our community and Culver's is proud to collect donations that will be delivered locally. It's special to know the toys will be given to children from our community who are going through a tough time right now."

To donate, visit Culver's of St. Charles at 4068 E. Main St.