Programs and Services to End Hunger in Chicago

The Greater Chicago Food Depository is Cook County’s local food bank. We provide food for hungry people while striving to end hunger in our community. Working with a network of more than 700 partner agencies and programs including food pantries, soup kitchens and shelters, we distribute 160,000 meals every day.

While food distribution is central to our mission, we also develop programs that address the root causes of hunger for people of all ages and backgrounds.

To find an agency or mobile distribution near you, click here. To make an impact on any of our programs, click here.

Children’s programs

Children need nutritious food to grow and learn. Our programs in schools and community sites ensure that children have access to food all year long. The Lunch Bus program provides summer meals. Kids Cafes combine nutritious food and academic enrichment programs during the school year.

Programs for Children

Older adult programs

Older adults are a vulnerable group and numbers are on the rise. We deliver fresh produce and shelf-stable food items to Older Adult Choice Markets to help them eat well with limited funds.

Food for Older Adults

Benefits outreach

We assist people with accessing federal benefits such as the Supplemental Nutrition Access Program (SNAP) and Medicaid. These benefits help residents of our communities access health services and afford the food they need.

Information on Benefits Outreach

mobile-program

Mobile programs

Everyone should have access to fresh, healthy food, no matter where they live. Our Mobile Pantry and Producemobile bring nutritious food into areas of unmet need.

Producemobiles and Mobile Pantries

Job training

Chicago’s Community Kitchens, our workforce training program, prepares unemployed adults for productive careers in foodservice. This free 14-week program prepares students to work in commercial kitchens, including restaurants, school foodservice, catering and more.

Chicago’s Community Kitchens

Veterans’ programs

We serve those who have served our country. The Food Depository is committed to supporting Cook County veterans through programs and partnerships. Food pantries housed within two VA medical centers distribute nutritious food to thousands of veterans each month. The semi-annual Veteran Stand Down event provides food, clothing, medical care, and shelter for veterans experiencing homelessness.

Programs for Veterans

Health Programs

In partnership with area health systems, the Food Depository is working to implement a two question food insecurity screening for community health center patients. Patients who screen positive receive referrals for SNAP benefit application assistance, local food pantry referrals, and a “prescription” for fresh produce from the FRESH Truck. The FRESH Truck is part of an innovative partnership with community healthcare providers. It offers fresh produce for food insecure patients at community health centers throughout Cook County.

Find a Program or Pantry