Will County Board Asks Residents to Fight Hunger

The Will County Board has called on residents to help feed the hungry by donating to local pantries and food banks in recognition of Hunger Action Month, according to a release. Board members will be collecting non-perishable food items at Thursday’s board meeting along with other needed donations.

“I am asking your help in our efforts proclaiming September as Hunger Action Month,” said Speaker Jim Moustis. “At the September Board Meeting, we will collect bags of non-perishable groceries, school supplies, paper products, diapers, personal hygiene products, and gift cards to local grocery stores. All donations will be used in the Will County area. If you are unable to attend, please drop-off your donations at the County Building sometime this month.”

According to Feeding America, Will County requires nearly $32 million to meet food needs with approximately 67,000 food insecure residents. Food insecurity refers to USDA’s measure of lack of access to enough food for a healthy life and may reflect a household’s need to decide between important basic needs, such as housing or medical bills, and purchasing nutritionally adequate foods.

“No person should ever go hungry in our county,” said Republican Caucus Chair Chuck Maher, R-Naperville. “We are home to a vast amount of resources and assets to make sure this goal is accomplished. It’s my sincere hope we all can donate, volunteer and advocate for those without enough food and basic necessities to make it through the day.”

Nearly 48 million Americans face hunger on a regular basis, including 1 in 5 children or 15 million. In addition, nearly one third of senior households face the same circumstances. Some of the hardest hit homes are those with single mothers raising children.

“We all have a role to play in solving the hunger problem,” said Democratic Caucus Chair Herb Brooks, Jr., D-Joliet. “This is an issue that goes beyond the month of September, and one we must work on throughout the year. We encourage all Will County residents to participate and help fill up local pantries. And, we urge Congress to protect programs that help struggling families put food in their pantries.”

The County Building is located at 302 N. Chicago Street in Joliet. Collection containers are located on the second floor outside the County Board Room.