UPDATE: Abbott has just announced a substantial $250,000 donation to the Northern Illinois Food Bank to combat escalating childhood hunger in the region. This urgent support is part of the BackPack Program, which provides essential meals to families in need, ensuring children receive nine to 11 meals over the weekend.
As food insecurity has surged by 32% since 2019, the need for programs like this has never been greater. Jen Lamplough, chief impact officer at the food bank, emphasized, “The BackPack Program helps tide families over on weekends and into the next week.” This initiative is crucial as many families in Lake County rely on it to meet their nutritional needs when school meals are unavailable.
On October 9, Abbott employees volunteered their time to assemble food bags at the food bank’s facility in Lake Forest. Kathryn McKenzie, vice president of the Abbott Fund, stated, “Good nutrition is essential for good health. We want to help people live healthy lives.” The partnership with the food bank has existed for over two decades, reflecting Abbott’s ongoing commitment to community support.
The BackPack Program collaborates with 190 schools across nine northern Illinois counties, including Waukegan, Gurnee, and North Chicago, directly benefiting nearly 300 children each week. Schools determine which students receive the backpacks, ensuring that those in greatest need are prioritized.
Jessica Willis, child nutrition program manager at the food bank, explained that each backpack contains shelf-stable food items like pasta, canned fruits, and protein sources. “We’re trying to bridge the gap of the weekend,” she noted, highlighting the program’s aim to provide balanced meals.
The impact of this initiative extends beyond nutrition. Brooke Hagstrom, communications manager for Woodland Community School District 50, reported that approximately 42% of students in their district come from low-income families. She stated that the program has noticeably improved student attendance and engagement, fostering a healthier school environment.
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of families facing food insecurity has only intensified, with a reported 100,000 additional individuals affected after federal assistance ended. The ongoing inflation crisis has further exacerbated the situation, making support from organizations like Abbott critical.
With this latest contribution, Abbott and the Northern Illinois Food Bank aim to create approximately 225,000 meals over the next three months. This funding covers not only food costs but also transportation and operational expenses, ensuring that aid reaches those who need it most.
As volunteers continue to mobilize efforts, the community is urged to support these initiatives and help fight childhood hunger. The BackPack Program is a lifeline for many families, and with growing support, it will continue to make a significant difference in the lives of children in need.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story and learn how you can get involved.
