The Hunger Task Force is a coalition of food pantries in St. Charles, Lincoln, and Warren Counties. The Hunger Task Force collects information for the Food Resource Guide, raises awareness about hunger in our community, and works closely with community partners to increase the food supply for fragile families needing food assistance. To find out how you can help support local pantries, contact Dottie Kastigar.

Programs & Activities

Bulk Food Purchase:  Each summer, the Hunger Task Force uses donated funds from Mary Martha Thrift Shop, the Rotarians, and other community partners to purchase items to supplement low summer inventories. Since 2007, an Old Newsboys grant has provided additional funds for meat and dairy products to increase protein sources for children.

Resources for Fragile Families:  The Hunger Task Force recognizes that food pantry volunteers have frequent contact with fragile families. On-going communication with the pantries helps them become familiar with new resources that may be helpful for the families they serve.

Community Education:  Task Force members participate in school and community presentations and fairs to represent the work of all food pantries.

Shop Out Hunger:  In 2009, the Community Council Hunger Task Force partnered with Operation Food Search to conduct a one-day food drive (originally called Saturday Jubilee) at local grocery stores. 500 Volunteers collected approximately 50,000 food items for local pantries. Held annually in the summertime, the project continues to grow each year.