Local food banks and pantries work year-round to help families put food on the table. This holiday season, discover how you can support organizations such as the Eastern Illinois Foodbank and Daily Bread.
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Food insecurity affects millions of Americans, including families right here in central Illinois. The holidays are a time for giving, but food insecurity remains a challenge for millions of Americans.
Feature Impact - The holiday season brings people together and often inspires them to think about how they can support others. Yet for many families, this time of year can bring added pressure as they balance the cost of food and other everyday essentials. According to Feeding America's latest Map the Meal Gap study, published in 2026, nearly 48 million people in the United States, including 14 million children, experience food insecurity. Fortunately, there are a number of resources in Champaign County for those undergoing food insecurity. The Eastern Illinois Food Bank served over two million individuals through their Foodmobile distributions and network of food pantries. Serving over 20 counties and 200 meal programs in downstate Illinois, the food bank is the primary food source for food pantries, soup kitchens, homeless shelters, and other meal programs. The Daily Bread, located at 116 N. First Street in Champaign serves over 250 guests each day. It is a volunteer-run service and depends on donations from individuals, businesses and local grants. During the holidays, hunger relief is often top of mind and there are many ways to make a meaningful difference. Each year, Charles Schwab employees come together through Season of Giving to support local nonprofits and help make the holidays brighter for those in need. Consider these ideas from Charles Schwab Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to advancing financial literacy and strengthening communities.
1. Give What's Needed Most
When giving to a local food bank, pantry or other nonprofit, start by finding out what the organization needs most. Many organizations share lists of priority items, while monetary donations can give them flexibility to direct resources where they will have the greatest impact. A little planning can help make every contribution count. The Giving Place, a community ministry and food pantry located at 13 N Bourne in Tolono, is currently accepting donations of saltine type crackers, canned pasta, canned pears, canned tomato products, canned soups, cereal, spaghetti, and canned meats (tuna, chicken, SPAM) to distribute. It provides free food and clothing assistance to families living within the Unity Unit 7 School District. The Faith Church Food Pantry accepts food donations at the Faith United Methodist church office and in the sanctuary. Baskets are provided at both locations in the building for items.
Photo: RDNE Stock Project/PEXELS
