Food For Thought: Pilgrim Faith Food Pantry Hosts Trivia Fundraiser

OAK LAWN, IL — For many local families already struggling to afford groceries, winter can mean a choice between food and warmth. The Pilgrim Faith Food Pantry in Oak Lawn is hosting a fun trivia night fundraiser Saturday, Feb. 3, to stock its shelves and serve neighbors experiencing food insecurity.

Doors open at 6 p.m. and the game starts at 7 p.m. at Pilgrim Faith United Church of Christ, 9411 S. 51st Ave., Oak Lawn. Tickets are $30 online or $40 at the door (the value of a staple bag of groceries), and includes non-alcoholic beverages, trivia and a chance to win a grand prize. There will be a silent auction with goods from local businesses. Guests may also bring their own snacks and alcoholic beverages.

The Pilgrim Faith Food Pantry serves residents in Oak Lawn and surrounding communities. The all-volunteer pantry is supported by donations from individuals as well as organizations, businesses and local schools.

During 2023, the pantry was visited over 2,100 times, a 31.25 percent increase from 2022. Patrons of the pantry may visit once a month to receive a bag of grocery stables, a value of $40, to keep up with demand. The pantry distributed 1,476 bags throughout the year totaling $59,000. This doesn’t include the over $5,000 of bread/pastry donations from Panera Bread, $10,000 of hygiene products and miscellaneous food items on the table, and harvested produce from the food pantry garden.

Teams of eight will compete for a chance to win a grand prize. Silent auction items include Google Hub, Amazon fire sticks and tablet, gift cards to local businesses, wine basket and Yonanas ice cream maker.

Be prepared to test your knowledge and support a great community cause. Tickets can be purchased online for $30; or $40 at the door. For more information, email pilgrimfaith.org/food-pantry.