Northern Illinois Food Bank’s “Step Up to the Plate Challenge” Unites Baseball Fans to Fight Hunger

As baseball fans gear up for one of Chicago’s biggest rivalry weekends, Northern Illinois Food Bank is inviting Northside and Southside supporters to come together for a different kind of competition, one that helps neighbors facing hunger across Northern Illinois.

The Food Bank recently launched its “Step Up to the Plate Challenge,” a friendly fundraising competition running through the end of the Crosstown Classic series on Sunday, May 17. Fans can donate in support of their favorite team while helping provide nutritious food for children, families, and seniors throughout the Food Bank’s 13-county service area.

Every dollar donated through the campaign helps provide $8 worth of groceries to neighbors in need.

“Baseball fans are passionate, loyal, and always ready to show up for their team,” said Julie Yurko, President and CEO of Northern Illinois Food Bank. “The Step Up to the Plate Challenge is a fun way to channel that energy into something meaningful: helping provide meals and hope to families across our communities.”

Participants can choose to support either the Northside or Southside team, with donations tracked throughout the rivalry series. While bragging rights are part of the fun, organizers say the true victory is helping ensure more families have access to nutritious meals.

Several beloved baseball figures are also helping spread the word about the campaign, including former players and broadcasters (watch) Fergie Jenkins, Ron Kittle, and Pat Hughes, who are encouraging fans to use their team pride to make a positive impact in their communities.

The campaign comes at a time when many families across Northern Illinois continue to face rising food costs and economic pressures, increasing the need for food assistance throughout the region.

Northern Illinois Food Bank encourages fans of all ages to join the challenge, spread the word, and help knock hunger out of the park.

To participate in the Step Up to the Plate Challenge, visit Solve Hunger Today – Step Up to the Plate Challenge.