SPRINGFIELD – Springfield residents united over the weekend in a community-driven effort to distribute food to hundreds of local families. The event underscored a strong sense of solidarity and compassion, as volunteers worked to ensure their neighbors had access to nutritious food.
The distribution was set for 9 a.m. Sept. 23, but began early when traffic wrapped around the foodbank and stretched into the morning fog.
Central Illinois Foodbank was joined by Vyper Transportation, Ward 2 Alderman Shawn Gregory, Springfield Southeast High School Girls Basketball team, Sacred Heart-Griffin High School Boys Basketball team, Lincoln Land Community College’s Black Student Union, brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, and Foodbank Board Members.
Together the group distributed apples, potatoes, ground beef, chicken, shelf stable items and hygiene kits.
In roughly two hours, the Foodbank distributed 25,000 pounds of food to its neighbors.
“It’s wonderful to see so many neighbors come out to support one another,” Pam Molitoris, executive director of Central Illinois Foodbank, said. “There’s nothing better than watching people step up to give back to the community, especially with so many volunteers showing up early on a Saturday to lend a hand.”
Chloe Lucca, director of development for the Foodbank expressed she loved seeing members of younger generations show up to help.
“We’re incredibly grateful to see younger generations stepping up to help,” Lucca said. “From high school basketball teams to the children and grandchildren of our volunteers and board members, their involvement is not only inspiring but essential. It’s important for young people to take part in community efforts like this, as it fosters a sense of responsibility and ensures the spirit of giving continues for years to come.”
Central Illinois Foodbank continues to work with 140 partner agencies to alleviate hunger across central and southern Illinois. For more information about Central Illinois Foodbank and how to support their mission, visit www.centralilfoodbank.org.
