Elk Grove Township extends Tuesday hours for food pantry

To ensure that the Elk Grove Township Food Pantry is accessible to as many residents as possible, the township will be extending its Tuesday hours of operation until 7 p.m. for a test program, which began July 20.

New user applications and scheduled appointments are required.

Current food pantry hours are Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 9:30 a.m. to noon and 1 -3 p.m. With this change, Tuesday afternoon hours will be from 1-7 p.m. The township wants to make sure those in need are not prevented from getting food due to work or other obligations during the day.

"The food pantry is utilized by many different individuals experiencing a range of challenges. We must make sure its hours of operation are not preventing our residents who have a need from accessing it," said Elk Grove Township Supervisor George Busse.

"This is an extremely important service provided through the township, and we are looking to determine if more people can be served through these extended hours."

At present, the food pantry is serving nearly the same number of families per month compared to those served during the height of the pandemic.

"The fact that need has not diminished, despite our world opening up again, indicates a test like this is important to explore," Busse said.

The extended hours do not change the process that individuals must follow to access the food pantry. For new users, an application is required, in addition to scheduled appointments for all users.

To qualify, individuals must meet with a caseworker to verify residency and determine if there are other ways the township may be able to provide assistance.

For information, call (224) 265-6111.

The food pantry is a "client's" choice' model, which allows individuals to "shop" the pantry and pick out for themselves their most needed items.

Donations for the food pantry are also accepted. Please bring them to the west entrance of the township building, 600 Landmeier Road, Elk Grove Village, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For additional information on donations, contact Kailee at (224) 265-6102.