Self-Help Closet & Pantry of Des Plaines

Serving our Community Since 1971

We are an independent, 501(c)(3) charitable organization serving Des Plaines, Illinois residents with groceries and clothing during a time of need.

Urgent needs: summer clothing, toilet paper and items for kids' birthday bags ages 1-18. See the full list below.

769 Holiday Lane, Des Plaines, IL 60016

Client hours: Tuesdays 12:30 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. and Saturdays 10:00 a.m. - Noon

Registration hours: Same as Client hours above, but we ask that you come at least an hour before the closing time.

Donation drop-off hours: Mondays and Tuesdays 9:00 - Noon; Saturdays 8:30 - 10:00 a.m. at gray side door facing Holiday Lane.

View the map of our red barrel locations!


Items in Short Supply as of June 2, 2023

See the full list of donations we accept in the Donations tab.

GROCERIES Please, NO EXPIRED FOOD

CLOTHING & PERSONAL PRODUCTS

*completely out of stock

Announcements for Operations During the Time of COVID-19

The Pantry is OPEN for clients and for donors INSIDE the building. To streamline our operations:

Donations

Donations of food are always appreciated, and monetary donations will allow us more flexibility at this time.

Visit the Donations page for more details and to donate using our secure PayPal account.

Other Local Pantries for People in Need

Note about donations: Please do not leave donations outside the door as they attract neighborhood wildlife, and we must dispose of the items. Drop off donations at the gray side door facing Holiday Lane. Knock on the door and wait for a volunteer to assist during the hours above. Or drop non-perishables in our red barrels around town.  Please - NO EXPIRED FOOD

Des Plaines Self Help Closet and Pantry 50th Anniversary (720).mp4

The Story of the Self-Help Closet & Pantry of Des Plaines

This film by Wendy Ellis and Paul Meincke tells the story of the early beginnings of the Pantry in 1971 and how it evolved into an independent organization. To this day, the organization maintains the early founders' mission to help neighbors in need.