During the month of September, a local private foundation will match, dollar for dollar, all gifts from new donors or increased gifts from existing donors up to $20,000!  That's right!  You can have twice the impact on hunger when you donate during the month of September.  In response to the growing need, this anonymous foundation is challenging the community to help needy families during Hunger Action Month. Individual donations will be matched up to $5,000 and all donations matched up to $20,000. Double your impact on hunger and make a difference today.

September marks the second annual Hunger Action Month, and Northern Illinois Food Bank will be hosting local special events, volunteer shifts, and fundraisers to support individuals living on the brink of hunger in northern Illinois. In doing so, NIFB joins the other food banks of the Feeding America network that are conducting similar events across the country.  Hunger Action Month is a nationwide call-to-action effort to mobilize people everywhere to get involved with ending hunger in America.

Hunger in northern Illinois is exploding with 35% more people seeking food assistance compared to just one year ago.  "The challenges of feeding hungry people soared to new levels this year as unemployment rates nearly doubled," said Dennis Smith, NIFB Executive Director & CEO. "In the face of this nationwide emergency, the Food Bank is committed to this call-to-action."  Vicki Escarra, President & CEO of Feeding America, added, "This September is our opportunity to create a movement that has a real and lasting impact on our efforts to feed more Americans."  Throughout September, join millions of other Americans in giving a little of yourself - money, time, voice - whatever you can to feed the hungry in your community

Hunger Action Month is organized on a national level through Feeding America with local food banks conducting events across the United States that directly benefit the network’s hunger-relief efforts. Throughout the month of September, NIFB will offer many ways for the community to get involved. From food drives to golf outings, volunteer events to art shows, there’s something everyone can do all over northern Illinois.  Take action this September and help feed a hungry neighbor!

Click here for a full list of activities!
 

Please join the Food Bank on September 17th at Cantigny Park for the 2nd Annual The Art of Giving generously sponsored by Oberweis Dairy.  You will enjoy a splendid evening of divine cuisine, including Italian, Cajun, and prime rib, and wine samplings donated by area vintners all set amongst the backdrop of the newly constructed Le Jardin in Cantigny Park.

Last but not least, more than 25 local artists will be displaying their works, including acrylic, oil, watercolor, photography, mixed media, and pottery, for sale.  Proceeds will go to support Northern Illinois Food Bank's programs to feed hungry people.  Tickets are only $75, and with only two weeks until the event, don't delay!  Do not miss this wonderful evening knowing that you helped a hungry neighbor.  Remember, September is Hunger Action Month so get involved!

Click here to learn more and to view

sample art pieces!
 

You can support Hunger Action Month when you go to your local participating Panera Bread bakery-cafe and donate a box of cereal on September 18th to September 20th.  For your generosity, Panera Bread will give you a coupon for a free breakfast sandwich!  Don't pass up this opportunity to make a difference in the lives of hungry people in your community.  In addition, CBS 2 Chicago is partnering with Panera to help get the word out to the public.  Help support Hunger Action Month this September when you donate cereal at your local Panera Bread on September 18-20.  Click here to find your nearest Panera Bread!