BEYOND HUNGER

Founded in the 1970s by a small group of concerned citizens, and incorporated in 2010 as an independent 501(c)(3) organization, Oak Park River Forest Food Pantry harnesses the strengths and resources of its diverse and vibrant community to reduce hunger locally. The Food Pantry's main activities include (1) providing direct hunger relief to over 13,500 households annually; (2) developing and implementing nutrition education programs to help clients choose and use nutrient-dense, protein-rich foods; (3) linking clients to SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program—the federal "food stamp" program) and other benefits, and making referrals to help clients secure permanent income and social supports. Last year we served over 50,000 residents of 12 zip codes in Metropolitan Chicago and Cook County.