West Suburban Community Pantry pays it forward with food for Willowbrook Wildlife Center

West Suburban Community Pantry in Woodridge has found a way to make an even greater impact by connecting with the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County to donate more than 400 pounds of produce to the Willowbrook Wildlife Center to help feed the animals in the center's care.

"Instead of composting, we save fruits and vegetables close to expiration to help feed native animals in recovery," says Pantry CEO Sue Armato. "This just one more way we innovate to ensure that food benefits our greater community. We are grateful to Larry Larson, Friends of the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County board member, for donating his time to pick up and deliver this produce to nourish our animal friends!"

Willowbrook Wildlife Center provides care and medical treatment to injured, orphaned or sick wild animals.

The staff and volunteers at Willowbrook make and serve food for more than 200 species throughout the year.

The center in Glen Ellyn is currently embarking on construction of new facilities including improved clinic spaces and various exhibit and education opportunities for visitors to enjoy. Care of animals continues throughout the construction.

The West Suburban Community Pantry increases access to nutritious foods through an in-person Woodridge-based market, online ordering, senior home delivery, and child nutrition programs in local school districts. It also offers support services, connecting individuals and families to community and government assistance, as well as providing wellness workshops and counseling with a focus on crisis stabilization. Every day, it is moving closer to a vision of a community without hunger thanks to the generous support of the community and dedicated volunteers.

Visit www.wscpantry.org and Facebook and Instagram to learn more.