A worthy cause - Woodstock Food Pantry

I had heard about the Woodstock Food Pantry but didn't really know anything about it, so today I stopped in. Then I got so busy talking with Jack that I forgot to pick up a referral form, so that I could inform readers how to become a user of the Pantry.

The Pantry is located at 226 Washington Street, between the Zoia Monument building and DQ. The entrance is hard to see from the street; it's on the side of the building that faces the Zoia building. Today there were two volunteers there, plus Jack, who with his wife, Karen, helps keep the Pantry going.

Food is donated to the Pantry by local churches, groups and Woodstock residents, and some foods are purchased from the Northern Ililnois Food Bank. Donations of money are also accepted. And one of the most important donations is Time. Volunteers operate the Pantry; even though there are plenty of volunteers much of the time, sometimes there are not enough when needed.

Eight local churches are "members" of the Pantry, and numerous other churches donate to the Pantry to support it. Some families drop by every week to donate.

This is a good way to give back to your community. Perhaps you don't use the Pantry and think you may never have to. But it's there, if you do need it.

To become a recipient of food at the Pantry, pick up a Referral Form during any hours they are open (Monday, Wednesday, Friday 9:00AM-3:00PM). On the form are the names of groups that can provide the referral for you or for someone you know.

And consider dropping by to ask how you can help. You could pick up a case of soup or cereal at Aldi and donate it. Or you can drop off some money. They will tell you whether or not your donation is tax-deductible. Or you can call for information: 815/337-0375