‘Stuff the Squad’ for HCS Family Services April 24-27

The Hinsdale Police Department and all four School District 181 elementary schools will try to “Stuff the Squad” with non-perishable food items and dry goods the week of April 24 in an effort to help stock the HCS Family Services food pantry in the village.

“We are thankful for our partnerships within the community, and hope this event will help fill HCS Family Services pantries with much needed food and paper products,” said Erik Bernholdt, Hinsdale Deputy Police Chief. “We hope the event is so successful, we can make it an annual event.”

A Hinsdale squad car will be at Madison School April 24, Monroe School April 25, Oak School April 26 and The Lane School April 27 from 8:15 to 9 a.m. Students and their families may drop off their donated items from 8:15 to 8:40 a.m. Community members should drop off their items between 8:45 and 9 a.m.

Among suggested donations: healthy, shelf-stable food items such as cereal, vegetables, soups, pasta, rice, beans, etc.: baking items including flour, oil, etc.; diapers; paper products like paper towels or toilet paper; and toiletry items.

Children who donate items will receive a sticker from the Police Department.

"HSC Family Services is excited to partner with School District 181 and the Hinsdale Police Department to collect food for our Hinsdale and Willowbrook food pantries,” said Stan Cook, Executive Director of HCS Family Services. “Food insecurity often peaks during summer months when school isn't in session, so this is a perfect time to stock the shelves."

Founded in 1937, HCS Family Services is a not-for-profit social service agency that operates two community food pantries that served nearly 4000 individuals in 2017.