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As part of Hudson Serves 2025, a small team of HSL volunteers travelled to a Northern Illinois Food Bank (NIFB) distribution center in February to help package produce for the food bank to distribute to those in need throughout northern Illinois.

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Onions were the commodity that day for the team to sort into 2.25-kilometer bags. The goods are picked up twice weekly by nearby food pantries, where consumers can collect them.

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The volunteers from HSL helped to assemble more than 6,000 kilograms of produce for distribution. The team delighted in the camaraderie and friendly competition of hitting their target weights and being the fastest on the line — all for a good cause!

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The NIFB brings together manufacturers, local and corporate grocers, area farmers, corporations, foundations and individuals who donate food and funding to provide 250,000 meals a day to residents of 13 counties in northern Illinois.

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The NIFB’s network of more than 900 pantries, soup kitchens, and youth and senior feeding programs continues to serve more neighbors than ever before. The food bank in 2024 served an average of 570,000 neighbors every month, a 14% increase over 2023 and more than double the pre-pandemic level.

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The nonprofit in 2024 also marked 25 years of its Holiday Meal Box program, which ensures that all neighbors can enjoy a special holiday meal. To meet demand, the NIFB distributed 50,000 boxes in November and December.

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To find a local pantry or feeding program, donate, or volunteer at a Northern Illinois Food Bank, visit www.SolveHungerToday.org.

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Every $1 donated enables the NIFB to purchase USD $8 worth of groceries to provide to nearby neighbors, ensuring more people have access to healthy and nutritious food.

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As part of the Hudson Serves 2025 campaign, the HSL team is excited to find opportunities where we can apply our teamwork skills beyond the office, actively serving in the communities where we live and work!

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