The Northern Illinois Food Bank is celebrating a milestone this year, marking 25 years of its Holiday Meal Box program, which ensures that all neighbors can enjoy a special holiday meal with their loved ones. With the generous support of sponsors and volunteers, the Food Bank will provide 50,000 Holiday Meal Boxes to those facing hunger across 13 counties in rural and suburban Northern Illinois.
Each Holiday Meal Box weighs 13.8 pounds and is designed to feed a family of 6-8, containing traditional holiday meal staples such as stuffing, turkey gravy, green beans, sweet potatoes, cranberry sauce, and dessert mix. Depending on the distribution location, families will also receive a whole turkey, turkey breast, or ham.
Volunteers will pack the boxes, which will be distributed through local food pantries in November and December. Neighbors in need can find distribution details by contacting their local pantry.
“The Holiday Meal Box program is not just about food; it’s about community and connection,” said Julie Yurko, President and CEO of Northern Illinois Food Bank. “For 25 years, donors and volunteers have come together to help families gather and celebrate the holidays during this meaningful time.”