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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:
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:
Letter Carrier Stamp Out Hunger® Food drive
Maine West High School Warrior Garden
St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church food drive
Jewel/Osco Turkey Dinner and Ham Dinner food drives
Des Plaines Chamber of Commerce & Industry Food Fight
Spouses Selling Houses Team Pi(e) Day
Thank you to all of our supporters - we couldn't do this without you!
Des Plaines Self Help Closet and Pantry 50th Anniversary (720).mp4The Story of the Self-Help Closet & Pantry of Des Plaines
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
About the Pantry
Part of the Des Plaines Chamber of Commerce & Industry "Please Stop Here" series by Ian Ryan Interactive
Our New Location
Our New Location
The City of Des Plaines visited the new location at 769 Holiday Lane.
Part of the Community
Part of the Community
Featured on WTTW Chicago Tonight "In Your Neighborhood Series"
Des Plaines Independence Day Parade 2025
Directly from the Director
Directly from the Director
If someone had told me I would be running the Self-Help Closet & Pantry of Des Plaines, I am not sure I would have believed them. I learned of the open position from my honorary aunt, and Des Plaines philanthropist, Nikki Skarbek, who seems to know everyone.
I have learned a great deal from the Board of Directors, volunteers, Jana Haas and Debbie Walusiak, which has been a valuable learning experience.
I am so grateful for the opportunity to serve the folks in my hometown by leading the Pantry and Community Backpack Project to feed, clothe, and support Des Plaines residents in need.
Barb Leane
Executive Director
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
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