Hunger Resource Network Delivers Another 80 Tons of Frozen Chicken

Hunger Resource Network (HRN) in Northbrook believes protein is essential to a healthy diet — so they go beyond simply distributing calories, making sure families in need have access to high-quality protein sources like chicken.

During Poultry to Pantries Delivery Day, which takes place twice a year and was most recently held on March 21, recipient agencies receive a total of 160 tons of chicken. This equates to 640,000 protein servings distributed to ninety food pantries, shelters, and soup kitchens throughout the Chicagoland area. A second Poultry to Pantries Delivery Day is planned for November 2026.

Through partnerships, volunteer efforts, and a steadfast mission, HRN brings hope and health to the tables of those too often overlooked. From 2009 through March 2026, more than five million lbs. of food have been distributed to those in need in Chicagoland.

HRN Widens its Distribution Area to Help Alleviate Hunger

“I am thrilled to announce that, thanks to our generous donors this year, we have secured funding to purchase 80,000 additional pounds of chicken (March and November 2026).

“This has enabled us to provide 160,000 more protein servings to nearly 100 relief agencies for those facing hunger,” said Dan Jariabka, who founded HRN with his wife, Linda, in 2009 with the purpose of supporting food pantries, soup kitchens, and shelters across the Chicago-area.

For some recipients it will be the first time in quite a while they have received high quality protein,” Jariabka added.

Dan points out, “You do not have to go to a third world country to see hunger. Hunger is here in our communities and in our neighborhoods today and it will continue to be here tomorrow unless we choose to make a difference.”

“On Poultry to Pantries Delivery Day, the teamwork among our dedicated volunteers was phenomenal. The loading of agency vehicles started at 7:20 a.m. and finished at 9:30 a.m. It was amazing,” Jariabka emphasized.“We are greatly appreciative of their commitment and passion.”

Meeting Increasing Needs in Food Challenged Communities

WINGS Program is an example of the ninety recipient agencies that receive frozen chicken from HRN for those in need. The mission of WINGS Program, Inc. is to provide housing, integrated services, education, and advocacy to end domestic violence.

Pamela Dagen, In-Kind Program Distributions Supervisor, expressed “heartfelt thanks for HRN’s generous donation of 1,200 lbs. of frozen chicken for the WINGS Safe Houses. “This support is invaluable to our mission and plays a crucial role in uplifting the families we serve.”

Dagen emphasized, “HRN’s contribution helps ensure that essential items are available for those who need them the most. This tangible support provides a sense of security and sustainability, allowing families to allocate their resources to other necessities and start rebuilding their lives.”

Mark Your Calendar for HRN’s Annual “Hunger Hero” Luncheon

Area residents are invited to attend the upcoming “Hunger Hero” Luncheon, hosted by Hunger Resource Network (HRN), Northbrook, this year featuring keynote speaker Executive Chef and Proprietor Joe Frillman, Daisies & The Radicle, a leading voice in sustainability and low waste measures in restaurant kitchens throughout the Chicagoland area.

The event will be held on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. (doors open for networking at 11 a.m.) at Chevy Chase Country Club, Wheeling, IL.

Tickets are available for purchase at $75.00 each or $700 per table of ten; donations and sponsorships are appreciated. Visit: Hunger Hero Luncheon 2026.

Learn More About Hunger Resource Network: Providing Protein to Those in Need

HRN is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to working in partnership with corporations and individuals who share a commitment to feed the hungry. Its mission is to aid in the alleviation of hunger by helping meet the needs of food pantries, soup kitchens, and shelters.

HRN hosts “Poultry to Pantries Delivery Day” twice a year and 80 tons of frozen chicken (320,000 protein servings) are distributed at each event to ninety organizations providing food to those in need throughout Chicagoland. HRN also provides additional resources to support seniors and students in need.

Established in 2009, HRN has dozens of businesses, foundations, local organizations, and individuals all known as “Hunger Heroes” who are benefactors.

For additional information, to volunteer or donate, contact HRN at 847-272-1700 or visit:https://www.hungerresourcenetwork.org/.