Every meal tells a story

Stone Soup Chicago is a Chicago-inspired retelling of a story about neighbors, generosity, and shared meals created to reflect the kind of community we believe in. Because when people come together, every small act helps nourish something bigger.

The purchase of this book helps put meals on the table for families across Cook County. Sharing it helps the movement grow even further.

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Once upon a time in the city of Chicago...

Follow two mysterious visitors, The Traveler and The Child, as they journey through the city’s neighborhoods collecting stones for a magical recipe. When they discover that some locals have lost their sense of connection with one another, they get cooking on a plan to remind them how small acts of kindness can bring people together and feed a community.

Written by John Jennings | Illustrated by Sam Kirk

About the Author

John Jennings is a critically acclaimed author, educator, storyteller and the voice behind Stone Soup Chicago. A Harvard Fellow, New York Times bestselling author, Eisner Award winner, and Hugo Award recipient; John’s work is grounded in culture, community, and impact. He leads the story with intention, shaping a retelling that feels both rooted and real. We're proud to have him as part of this project and excited for you to experience it soon.

About the Illustrator

Sam Kirk is a renowned multidisciplinary artist and storyteller. born and raised on Chicago’s South Side, Sam’s work is bold, vibrant, and rooted in real stories of resilience and shared humanity. Her illustrations bring Stone Soup Chicago to life, capturing the spirit of this city and the people who shape it.

What if we turned a timeless fable into a citywide movement?

Stone Soup Chicago embodies what the Food Depository stands for: people coming together to support one another. The book is a timely reminder of who we serve and why.

This is more than a story. It’s a citywide invitation to come together, share what we can, and help end hunger one bowl at a time.

Take Action. Demand Change.

Help Your Neighbors Facing Food Insecurity in Chicago and Cook County

Hunger is a year-round problem that touches every community in Cook County, and every neighborhood in Chicago. Hundreds of thousands of people face hunger every year – yet even one is too many.

Get involved to give back to your community today and make a lasting difference.

Give

Donate money and make a critical impact in the work we do through a one-time gift, monthly donation, tribute gift, stock gift or more.

Volunteer

Donate time. Explore our food bank volunteer opportunities for individuals or groups and sign up to help at our facility or in the community.

Advocate

Lift your voice to support our advocacy efforts that address the root causes of hunger.

Start a Fundraiser

Leverage your network of friends, family or coworkers and make an immediate difference in our community.

Learn

Discover more about food insecurity in Chicago and Cook County and its impact on our community through research on hunger-related issues.

Additional Ways to Support

Attend an event, buy Food Depository merch or learn how to support us when you shop and dine.

Baby spinach leaves with water droplets.

You Belong to Our Community

Whether you need help finding food today or are ready to lend help to someone else, we’re here to connect, help, and inspire.

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