Demand For Township Emergency Assistance On The Rise;Donations Needed to Restock Township Food Pantr

With food prices increasing at the fastest rate since 1990, New Trier Township is seeing increased demand and a decrease in donations for its Food Pantry that has been a source of support for residents in need since 1965.

According to the USDA, the average American family is spending $80 more a month on groceries.  Gas prices are setting national records, with the Chicago area at the top of the list of cities with the highest prices.  “Everyone feels the pinch of increased prices, but people with low incomes or fixed incomes are hit harder,” notes Supervisor Patricia B. Cantor.  “Can you imagine choosing between buying food or paying your utility bill?”

Last month the New Trier Township Food Pantry served 41 households in need, an increase of 12 percent over the same month last year.   The Township is also seeing a steady increase in demand for emergency financial assistance from the Angel Fund.  “Several applicants were new and have never had to turn to the Township for help before, but managed to take that difficult first step,” according to Social Services Administrator Bette Vitale who oversees both programs.

How It Works:  Food Pantry & Emergency Aid

When someone is seeking assistance, an appointment is made with the social worker for a confidential meeting.  At this time, the needs are identified and

documentation is submitted so that appropriate programs that can help are put into motion.  Often people in crisis just don’t know where to begin and the right place to begin is by calling the Township.   Some residents who desperately need financial aid are not eligible for assistance from public funds. For these individuals and families, there is the Angel Fund that provides emergency assistance to pay for food, shelter, utilities, clothing, medical care and other necessities.

How You Can Help

People who want to make individual donations of non-perishable food may drop off their items at the Township Office, located at 739 Elm Street in Winnetka.  The Township Office is open between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Groups interested in organizing a food drive should call the Township Social Services Administrator, Bette Vitale, at 847-446-8201. 

Food items most needed right now are:  tuna, cereal, canned fruit, cereal, cake mixes, rice, salt & pepper.  The pantry also provides toiletry items (shampoo), laundry

detergent, Kleenex, toilet paper and paper towels to people in need. These items are in especially short supply and are urgently needed.  For a complete list of items provided through the Pantry visit http://www.newtriertownship.com/pantry.html.

Anyone interested in making a financial donation to the Angel Fund may send a

check, made payable to "New Trier Township” with Angel Fund noted on the Memo Line. These contributions are tax-deductible.

About New Trier Township