Feeding the Community: How the Council for Working Women Stepped Up in a Time of Need

Even before the devastating storms hit Will County on July 15th, the Council for Working Women, a division of the Joliet Region Chamber of Commerce & Industry, was already making a difference in the lives of those in need. Through a generous donation of a semi-truck load of food, worth approximately ,500, the council provided vital support to the St. John Lutheran Church Food Pantry in Joliet, ensuring that families had access to essential nourishment during a challenging time.

Empowering the Community: The Council for Working Women's Commitment to Serving Others

Partnering with St. John Lutheran Church Food Pantry

The Council for Working Women's decision to donate to the St. John Lutheran Church Food Pantry was a strategic one, as some of their members already volunteered at the pantry on a regular basis. This existing connection allowed for a seamless collaboration, ensuring that the donated resources were directed to where they were needed most.The council's donation enabled the food pantry to purchase healthy protein options, such as meat, dairy, eggs, and pantry staples, in bulk at a reduced rate. These items were not typically within the pantry's budget, but the council's generosity made it possible to provide a more comprehensive range of nutritious options to those in need.

Fostering Team-Building and Community Engagement

In addition to the financial contribution, the Council for Working Women also provided 30 volunteers to assist with the food distribution. This not only helped to streamline the process but also served as a valuable team-building exercise for the council members."They also like to do community work," said Jen Howard, president of the Joliet Region Chamber of Commerce & Industry. "So it was a great thing for all of them to get together as a group."The council's involvement in the food distribution event allowed its members to come together, work towards a common goal, and make a tangible difference in their local community.

Reaching a Diverse Population in Need

The impact of the Council for Working Women's donation was far-reaching, as the food distribution event on Monday served 238 children, 491 adults, and 170 seniors in the Joliet community. This comprehensive support ensured that individuals and families from various age groups and backgrounds were able to access the essential nourishment they required.The council's commitment to addressing the needs of the community, even before the storms hit, demonstrates their proactive and compassionate approach to community service. By partnering with the St. John Lutheran Church Food Pantry, the council was able to leverage its resources and network to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those facing food insecurity.