The need for basic services in Aurora growing substantially during the 2008 recession, it became evident that a larger space – both for food storage and grocery distribution – was needed.
With the support of the community, government agencies, and local foundations, Aurora Food Pantry moved to its present location in November 2013. The 18,000 sq. ft. space (six times larger than the previous site) radically improved the distribution process, with benefits including:
- Client-choice market with refrigerator cases and permanent shelving
- A comfortable, indoor client waiting room with a children’s play area
- Large storage warehouse with docks for safely unloading deliveries
- Increased refrigerator and freezer space to store fresh foods
Today, Aurora Food Pantry is one of the largest food pantries in northern Illinois, distributing 3.6 million pounds of food each year to 157,480 visitors. With a staff of 10, a crew of over 500 volunteers, and countless community partners, Aurora Food Pantry is dedicated to ending hunger in the community by providing nutritious food in a humanitarian and compassionate manner.