Kankakee, IL – The need for food and supplies continues to increase as food pantries nationwide are reporting higher numbers in requests during the COVID-19 pandemic. Last year, both hospitals in the City of Kankakee partnered with the Northern Illinois Food Bank to host a mobile food pantry once a month in the community. The pantry provides fresh produce, milk, eggs and more. New dates have been released for 2021.

AMITA Health St. Mary’s Hospital kicked off their first mobile food pantry last week on the West side of Kankakee.

“Access to healthy food continues to be a need in Kankakee County, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our mobile event serves on average 200 households per month and we continue to see the success of this program in our community resulting with multiple attendees participating in our free Screen and Intervene program. This program focuses on managing chronic diseases, educating on the management program and also on how eating healthy impacts these diseases,” said Kathy Peterson, Executive Director of Community Development for AMITA Health St. Mary’s Hospital.

Riverside Healthcare teamed up to host their mobile food pantry on the East side of Kankakee. Their first event for the year will be held on Thursday, January 28, 2021 from 3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. at the City Life Center located at 1820 East Court Street.

“Last year was a challenging year, but Riverside’s commitment to our community hasn’t changed,” said Phil Kambic, President and CEO of Riverside Healthcare. “Our partnership with the Northern Illinois Food Bank continues to allow Riverside to provide nutritious food and additional resources to those in need. As we move into 2021, we are looking to add services and find ways to bring more value to those we serve.” 

 

“Accessibility to healthy food can be critical for individuals with chronic illnesses, such as diabetes, heart disease and high blood pressure,” said Lynn Christian, RN and Wellness Manager. “A main goal with the Mobile RX Food Pantry is to provide attendees with nutritious food, but also provide educational resources about how to use the food to create a sustainable, healthy diet.” 

“The City of Kankakee is fortunate to have two hospitals led by teams who are monitoring the needs of the community and active in identifying solutions; particularly during times of crises. I appreciate the commitment of the hospital staff, City team and students in volunteering, rain or shine to distribute food and educational materials. Furthermore, none of this would be possible without the partnership of the Northern Illinois Food Bank for providing these resources especially during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Mayor Wells-Armstrong.

Riverside Healthcare RX Mobile Food Pantry dates are as follows from 3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. at the City Life Center located at 1820 East Court Street:

• Thursday, January 28, 2021
• Thursday, February 25, 2021
• Thursday, March 25, 2021
• Thursday, April 22, 2021
• Thursday, May 27, 2021
• Thursday, June 24, 2021

 

AMITA Health St. Mary’s Hospital RX Mobile Food Pantry dates are as follows from 3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. at St. Rose Church located at 486 West Merchant Street:

• Tuesday, January 5, 2021
• Tuesday, February 2, 2021
• Tuesday, April 6, 2021
• Tuesday, May 4, 2021
• Tuesday, June 1, 2021

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The City of Kankakee is dedicated to protecting, building and nurturing the community while enhancing lives. We are a historic, vibrant, and active riverfront community. We continue to transform into an extraordinary place to dream, grow, and thrive. Embracing our diversity, we strive to be progressive, inclusive, and innovative. For more information on the City of Kankakee, please visit the website at www.citykankakee-il.gov.

 

Download the Press Release - Local Hospitals to Continue Mobile Food Pantries in 2021 in Partnership with the Northern Illinois Food Bank