Our neighbors struggling with hunger face much different circumstances now than they did just a few years ago. As the need changes, our response is evolving. We must do more to serve vulnerable populations and increase access to nutritious food throughout Chicago and Cook County.
The Food Depository is ready to take on this challenge.
Our Nourish renovation project will provide more fresh fruits and vegetables by expanding our cold storage, improve efficiency by remodeling shipping and receiving docks and engage new anti-hunger leaders by updating our volunteer space.
This project advances our vision for a day when no one goes hungry.
The Food Depository has outgrown its current building. Our distributions have doubled since 2004. Fresh produce is a large and growing part of the food we offer. We have begun renovations to make our facility more efficient and effective. In addition, our new volunteer experience will increase opportunities for children and families.
We must meet our hungry neighbors where they live and learn. We can do this through expanded partnerships at schools, health clinics, senior centers and residences. By continuing to engage elected officials, community leaders and the public, we will advance policies and solutions to solve the root causes of hunger.
To advance our vision of a healthy, hunger-free community, we will expand our Chicago’s Community Kitchens workforce training program and establish a new program to increase employment opportunities. We will be able to prepare nutritious meals for home delivery. We will also establish a nutrition education center to improve the health of our community.
Our New Volunteer Center broadens volunteer opportunities for children, families and groups. The volunteer center includes an interactive children’s area, a new orientation room and a dedicated space for produce sorting.
Reconfigured Office Space accommodates our growing team, adding more training and meeting space.
Warehouse and Transportation Improvements increase our capacity to store and distribute fresh food, adding a transportation center and reconfiguring our docks to accommodate our increasing deliveries.
Check this page for updates as the Nourish campaign moves forward. We will share plans and information here.
We are grateful for the generous support of donors who have made it possible for us to begin this work. Our expanded response cannot happen without the support and partnership of many. Contact us to find out how you can support this project.
Take a look at our current project status throughout the building on the maps below. While major construction improvements were completed in October 2018, additional updates will take place through fall 2019.
The first floor updates include the shipping and receiving docks, as well as volunteer spaces.
Updates to Chicago’s Community Kitchens spaces have been completed. Office space updates on the second floor are in progress.
