A rising hunger crisis has prompted 4-H Clubs in Henry, Mercer, Rock Island, and Stark Counties to join forces and launch a community-wide food drive, and they're inviting the public to participate in the fight against hunger. The food drive will run from November 1 - December 15, 2023.

Hunger Doesn't Discriminate. It touches the lives of our neighbors, friends, and family members. In our four-county service area, over 20,000 people are food insecure, and the need continues to grow.  Recent statistics reveal that the need for food assistance has surged by 35% in our local communities. At the same time, local food banks are grappling with a worrisome decline in donations by up to 29%.

The 4-H Food Squad To address this urgent issue, 4-H Clubs across our counties have come together to form the "4-H Food Squad," and they are calling on the community to join their mission. The goal is simple but powerful: make a real impact in the lives of those facing hunger.

Get Involved Today Help the 4-H Food Squad by donating what you can and be a hero in our fight against hunger.

Suggested Items: Donors are asked to contribute five types of essential items:

• Fruits: A can or jar of fruit for strength and health.
• Veggies: A can of vegetables for a balanced diet.
• Grains: A grain like rice, pasta, oats, or cereal for energy.
• Protein: A protein-packed item such as peanut butter, or a can of tuna, chicken, beans, soup, etc., to provide essential nutrients.
• Basics: A personal care staple like toilet paper, shampoo, deodorant, lotion or toothpaste.

Together, we can make a profound impact on the lives of those in need.

How Can You Help? Clubs will be collecting donations through Dec 15. You are invited to participate by donating items to a local 4-H Club, or by dropping off donations at one of the following Illinois Extension offices. Contact information for the 4-H staff serving each county is also listed.

• Rock Island County 4-H | Contact Jennifer Peterson, or Elaine Kaple
  • Address: 321 W 2nd Ave. Milan, IL | (309) 756-9978
• Henry/Stark Counties 4-H | Contact Kristin VanDeVelde
  • Address: 358 Front St. Galva, IL | 309-932-3447
• Mercer County 4-H | Contact Tracy Fowler-Pestle
  • Address: 910 13th St. Viola, IL | 309-513-3100