Food banks across the country are constantly working to innovate and improve their services, and without them, the Feeding America network could never provide for those in need. Each month, we’ll be turning the spotlight onto an individual food bank that is working hard to become even more efficient and effective.
This month, we are featuring the Northern Illinois Food Bank.
With the holidays swiftly approaching, the country readies itself for the time of the year when it truly feels better to give than receive. Choosing an organization to give those donations to can be an overwhelming task – after all, you want to make sure your charitable efforts are going to good work. Donating to Feeding America member food banks is a trusted way to ensure your gift is going to those who need it the most.
One excellent example of donation efficiency is the Northern Illinois Food Bank. As a true testimony to the wonderful work this food bank does, it recently earned a Four-Star rating from Charity Navigator for the sixth consecutive year. This prestigious honor is awarded to only 2% of charities nationwide, with a Four-Star rating based on the organization’s ability to efficiently manage its finances and strengthen its programs. Over 95% of every dollar donated goes directly towards the Northern Illinois Food Bank’s programs to provide nutritious food to all those in need.
Since the NIFB received its first Four-Star rating in 2003, the food bank has grown considerably to meet hunger needs in the community by supporting more than 520 food assistance sites in 13 counties. Over the course of six years, the number of pounds distributed by the food bank has doubled to 27.2 million.
The area that has seen the most growth in the last six years is the Youth Nutrition Program, growing from 44,121 youth meals in 2003 to an astounding 902,185 meals this year. This program utilizes a multi-faceted approach, including after-school meals, food-filled backpacks, hot supper sites, and summer meals, to tackle the critical issues of childhood hunger. Another important distribution effort includes the Holiday Meal Box campaign to feed hungry families during the holiday season. Each box provides a traditional holiday meal, including a 12-14 pound turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, vegetables, and dessert, to a family of eight. In 2003, 3,100 meal boxes were distributed compared to the nearly 29,000 that will be handed out this year.
The Northern Illinois Food Bank is positive proof that even in these hectic times, Feeding America member food banks are rising to the challenge and providing hope to Americans in need.
To learn more about the many ways Northern Illinois Food Bank serves its community, please visit: northernilfoodbank.org.