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St. John Lutheran Church Food Pantry

The food pantry is a first responder to the hunger crisis in our community.  We are here to serve our hungry neighbors through a weekly pantry and 5 special 30,000 lb. Mobile Food Pantry events.

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You may receive food every 21 days at our weekly pantry.  You may also receive food at our Mobile Food Pantry Events. Mobile Food Pantry events do not count towards the 21 day rule.

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We are only closed on major holidays.  Always check our home page for the most current information.

Regular Pantry Information

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Weekly Pantry Hours                                       

  • Tuesdays 12:30 - 2:30 p.m.

  • Thursdays 9:00 - 11:00 a.m.

  • Saturdays 9:00 - 11:00 a.m.

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Can I arrive early and just hang out?

No.  You can begin to line up 1 hour before we open.  This means you may line up on Tuesdays at 11:30 a.m., Thursdays at 8:00 a.m., and Saturdays at 8:00 a.m.

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When do the doors open?

Doors open a half hour before distribution. 

 

Do I need to bring bags, boxes, etc. to carry home my food?

Yes.  We no longer save boxes.  Bring some bags, boxes, or laundry baskets with to take home your groceries.
 

What area do you serve?

We welcome any hungry person or family who lives in Illinois, regardless of school district, county, or zip code. 

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How often can I visit?

You are welcome to visit our pantry for food once every 21 days.  Mobile events do not count as a visit.  See chart below

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Do you know where I can sign up for SNAP?

We offer free, private one-to-one sign up several times a year during regular pantry distribution time and at mobile events.  Check our calendar to see when the next sign up takes place.  If you need to sign up sooner, visit Northern Illinois Food Bank SNAP or call 844.600.SNAP (7627).

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What are the requirements to receive food?

Please bring a state identification card or drivers license, however, it is not required.  As a State of Illinois Emergency Food Pantry, we follow the Illinois Department of Human Services rules.​

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Where can I get help with housing, rent, utilities, health care, medical or more?

Visit the Crisis Line or call them at 815-722-3344 to receive FREE and CONFIDENTIAL assistance 24/7.  

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Where can I find other pantries near me?

Mobile Food Pantry Events

These are Northern IL Food Bank mobile trucks that carry 10,000 pounds of food.

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View all of this month's mobile food pantry events that are free and open to the public.

These are unique St. John Lutheran Church mobile food pantry events that offer up to 30,000 pounds of food.

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More information is on our Mobile Food Pantry page.

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Myths & Facts

Let's clear up the myths about food pantries.  Perfect for first time visitors.  Courtsey of Northern IL Food Bank.

Read

Find a Pantry

Finding a pantry does not need to be daunting.  Northern IL Food Bank has a fast pantry finder for you.

Find A Pantry

St. John MFP's

St. John Mobile Food Pantry (MFP) events are like no other!  We order 25,000 lbs. of food for 250 families!

2019 MFP Flyer

Area Pantries

Area pantries are here to serve you during your times of need.  Be sure to call before going.

Local Pantries