Skip to content

Chamber Partnership with Hunger Resource Network Supports Local Students in Need

Once again the Chamber is partnering with Hunger Resource Network (HRN) to provide supplemental food and necessities to Northbrook children who qualify for assistance. HRN’s student meal initiative provides monthly bags of food to children covered by federal free and reduced-price lunch programs.

With shopping lists designed by nutritionists, each bag provides ingredients for supplemental meals for weekends and other days when children do not receive school meals. The estimated cost of each bag is $30-$40, depending on brands purchased. Bags are distributed through local schools to protect the privacy of recipients.

The Chamber will kick off this community outreach initiative by participating in the 4th annual Students Helping Students Personal Care Pack collection drive on Sunday, July 16 of needed non-food items.

“We are excited to offer this opportunity for our members to connect with the community,” said Kathi Quinn, Chamber Executive Director. “Businesses of all sizes can participate, and it can be a great team-building experience for employees. Whether you supply one bag or 10, you’ll be reaching out to help children in need right here in Northbrook.”

“We are thrilled to be partnering with the Chamber to help our local students in need; every item and every dollar matters to their families,” says Henry Fetta, HRN Director. “We are currently serving 160 students across the five Northbrook school districts and look to expand the program in the fall. Thanks to the Chamber for always being there to make a positive difference in our community.”

In preparation for the upcoming school year, HRN and local youth organizations will run the annual Students Helping Students Personal Care Pack collection on Sunday, July 16. We encourage members to participate and to spread the word with friends and neighbors. Donors are asked to purchase a specific list of toiletries:

  • Shampoo
  • Conditioner
  • Body Wash
  • Body Lotion
  • Deodorant
  • Mouthwash
  • Dental Floss
  • 2-Pack of Toothpaste
  • 6-Pack of Toothbrushes
  • Sunscreen
  • $3-$5 of snacks/treats

(Click here for a printable list.) Donations should be packed in double-bagged paper shopping bags with handles. Please do not include items not listed.

Drop-Off Options:

DAY OF DRIVE: Westmoor Elementary School, 2500 Cherry Lane, between 10:00am and 2:00 pm on July 16

PRE-DRIVE DROP OFF: Chamber office, 2002 Walters Avenue, during business hours through July 12

FUTURE EVENTS:

Beginning in September, the Chamber will begin collecting food bags for school delivery. A registration form for volunteers will be available in August.