As SNAP cuts threaten to increase food insecurity, the Greater Chicago Food Depository is preparing for rising demand — building on recent efforts that distributed thousands of emergency food boxes during the November 2025 government shutdown. In close partnership with 211 Metro Chicago, the Food Depository is helping ensure neighbors can access food and critical resources during a time of significant policy change. 

Hear more from Patricia Fernandez, Manager of Neighbor Support for the Greater Chicago Food Depository.

What is your agency’s mission and whom do you serve?  

The Greater Chicago Food Depository is Chicago’s food bank, serving individuals and families experiencing food insecurity across Cook County through a network of more than 850 partner pantries, soup kitchens, and community organizations. We also address the root causes of hunger by advocating for policy change, offering job training opportunities, and providing public benefits assistance in person and by phone. Our facility is located in Archer Heights.  

What are some current challenges that the Food Depository faces?  

The Food Depository is bracing for food insecurity to rise in the coming months as devastating cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) go into effect. In Illinois alone, an estimated 230,000 SNAP participants are at risk of losing their benefits due to new work reporting requirements and other program changes. We anticipate lines at our partner food pantries will get longer, overwhelmed by the resulting need. We will do everything in our power to ensure food is available for anyone who visits a local pantry or meal program and that those who remain eligible for SNAP keep their benefits.  

What are some recent successes at the Food Depository?  

During the government shutdown in November 2025, we saw firsthand the immense need for emergency food when SNAP benefits were abruptly suspended. Thanks to the generosity of the community and strong partnerships across the city, we mobilized to distribute 9,000 emergency food boxes throughout the month. More than 35% of the households who received the boxes were visiting our network for the first time. The Food Depository is proud to serve a critical role in feeding our neighbors during times of heightened need.   

How has 211 Metro Chicago been a helpful resource and partnership with the Food Depository?   

211 Metro Chicago has been an invaluable partner to our agency! Thanks to their 24/7/365 helpline, our neighbors can receive information about our partner food access sites throughout Cook County, along with other health and social service resources. In turn, we’ve provided SNAP eligibility and Work Requirements training to 2-1-1 Navigators helping them identify affected callers and connect them with trusted organizations for support. This collaboration strengthens our shared ability to guide neighbors through changing federal policies and maintain access to critical services. 

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