News & Events

Each year, the Pantry benefits from fundraisers and food drives held by service organizations, local businesses, school districts and individuals in the community. Following are some of the annual events:

Thank you to all of our supporters - we couldn't do this without you!

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 and how it evolved into an independent organization - all the while maintaining the early founders' mission to help neighbors in need.

About the Pantry

Part of the Des Plaines Chamber of Commerce & Industry "Please Stop Here" series by Ian Ryan Interactive

Our New Location

The City of Des Plaines visited the new location at 769 Holiday Lane.

Part of the Community

Featured on WTTW Chicago Tonight "In Your Neighborhood Series"

Directly from the Director

Spring 2023


In our last newsletter, I reported that our food pantry served more than 1,000 individuals in November 2022. That number rose to 1,167 in December 2022 and 1,212 in February 2023. The trend definitely is upward, and the challenge to meet the need definitely is on. Can you help? Please know that any and all food and monetary donations always are appreciated, especially these days.


You might consider becoming a quarterly sponsor by donating at the Gold, Platinum or Diamond Level. We lend out our spiffy Red Barrels (we ordered more, so we have a lot) to collect food donations at your business, church, school, condo. How about at your next party in lieu of gifts?


There are many ways to help our neighbors in need who seek food assistance through our food pantry. Visit the home page for a list of most needed items right now.


As always, thank you to this caring community!

Debra Walusiak, Executive Director

two people from Rivers Casino holding grocery bags full of donations

Thanks to Rivers Casino in Des Plaines for their support of the Pantry!

An annual tradition! Run or walk on Thanksgiving morning to support the Pantry. 8am check-in; 9am start at Beacon Tap