The Illinois Valley Food Pantry and Sanctuary LaSalle are teaming up for a community food drive this Saturday, November 8th, from 2 to 5 PM at Sanctuary, 516 1st Street in LaSalle. The event is part of LaSalle’s Frosty on First celebration and will include a bake sale to benefit the pantry, which has recently relocated to Peru. Executive Director Mary Jo Credi highlights a critical need for both food donations and volunteers, urging residents to get involved. The Screaming Eagles Motorcycle Club is supporting the drive, and organizers invite other groups to join by contacting Dani Piland at 312-402-6739.
“The strains on the system are increasing,” said Sanctuary owner/operator Dani Piland. “I’ve worked in nonprofits for a long time, and it’s been rare to see such a quick and dramatic increase in the number of people who need help. Families are hungry, and I’m grateful to be in a position that means I can help rally the troops and make sure our neighbors are fed.”
Illinois Valley Food Pantry Executive Director Mary Jo Credi suggests the organization needs two primary resources: more volunteers and more donations. “Volunteers can sign up directly on our website,” Credi says. “But the real challenge is getting enough food to serve the growing number of people who need services.”
