Pop-Up Food and Essentials Pantry in Steeple Hill Neighborhood

A pop-up food and essentials pantry held outdoors in the Steeple Hill neighborhood of Hoffman Estates was a big success, according to Aubrey Hayes, social worker at Lakeview Elementary School. The event was coordinated with the Deacons' Ministry of Church of the Cross, (Presbyterian USA), at 475 W. Higgins Road, next door to Steeple Hill.

Members of the church contributed money to buy essential items such as toothpaste, toothbrushes, hair products, paper towels and children's socks. In addition, the deacons handed out gift cards to be used at a local supermarket. The Lakeview School food pantry supplied food boxes and produce items.

"It was truly amazing how much Church of the Cross was able to collect and provide for all of our families today," said Hayes. "We were hoping to get 15 families to attend today, 42 households signed in, so we were very happy with how the day went."

Many of the families who lined up to receive the items were first time visitors to the Lakeview Food Pantry, an indication that not all families in need are able to drive or get rides to the school. Nine of the families had young children and were referred to the birth to 3-year-old program in District 54.