Mary Jo Credi is excited to receive her new banner provided by University of Illinois Extension. Mary Jo is pictured with Extension Program Coordinator, Jani Kidd. Mary Jo reported that the sign will be useful for new clients who have difficulty finding the pantry. Mary Jo stated “People are always calling to ask where we are located. This banner will help anyone who is looking for us.”
Illinois Valley Food Pantry serves an average of 600 families a month in LaSalle, Peru, Oglesby, Utica, Tonica, Cedar Point, Lowell, Lostant and Leonore. Mary Jo has noticed an increase of new clients in the past few months. Given the current economic situation, they are on track to serve many more families as they assist local citizens who have had a new change in income. Local food pantries are utilizing a drive thru/pick up model to minimize contact due to COVID-19. In lieu of Holiday Baskets, the food pantry is providing each client with a second visit and a ham for the month of December. Illinois Nutrition Education Programs of University of Illinois Extension in Bureau, LaSalle, Marshall and Putnam Counties is providing outdoor signs (through a special grant) and healthy messages to local food pantries as a new way to support partners during this difficult time. The banners provide fresh visibility for new clients.
If you are interested in learning more about how to partner with University of Illinois Extension for educational programming focusing on healthy nutrition & lifestyles including food budgeting and food safety, please call Sherry Todas, Program Coordinator, at (815 )875-2878.
The Mission of University of Illinois Extension is to provide practical education you can trust to help people, businesses and communities solve problems, develop skills and build a better future. University of Illinois Extension provides equal opportunities in programs and employment. Visit our website at https://extension.illinois.edu/blmp
If you have questions or need more information, please call University of Illinois Extension- Bureau, LaSalle, Marshall, Putnam Unit Office at 815-224-0889. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate, please indicate when registering or contact the Extension office. Extension offices are located in Princeton, Ottawa, Henry and in Oglesby on the IVCC campus.