Downers Grove Woman Named CEO Of West Suburban Community Pantry

WOODRIDGE, IL — West Suburban Community Pantry's new CEO is a Downers Grove resident who brings more than three decades of experience in nonprofit management to the role. Suzanna Armato begins her appointment Oct. 1.

Armato earned a bachelors degree in economics (concentration on public policy and sociology) and a masters degree in public policy from the University of Chicago before beginning her career. Most recently , she has spent nearly a decade as the executive director of Chicago's Cancer Support Center.

Additionally, Armato has volunteered at West Suburban Community Pantry for 20 years, making her well-acquainted with its clients and day-to-day operations.

“We’ve been so moved by how critical the need for food is, and how many ways West Suburban Community Pantry has been able to help," Armato said in a statement.

She added, “Community means everything to us, and nutrition is crucial to community mental and physical health, education and employment. Lack of food affects the ability to learn, to work, to function. We have to actively address food insufficiency if our community is to thrive.”

Armato said she also knows from personal experience how difficult food insecurity can be.

“There were times when we kids would go without the free lunch available to us at school, because we didn’t want to be seen as different. So, I personally know how important it is to provide dignity and respect along with nutritious foods. What impresses me about West Suburban Community Pantry is their holistic approach. They offer food and they collaborate with local resources to offer support services that address the underlying causes of food insufficiency. This comprehensive approach can make a lasting difference."

West Suburban Community Pantry Board President Kevin Delano praised Armato's experience in a news release, saying, “We are confident she will successfully build on our strong history of serving our community as we continue to navigate the economic and health challenges affecting all of us."

West Suburban Community Pantry is located at 6809 Hobson Valley Dr., Woodridge.