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:
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
Thank you to all of our supporters - we couldn't do this without you!
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
Fall 2024
Signs of the approaching fall holidays are everywhere - pumpkin everything. Halloween candy and various pumpkin products popped up in grocery stores in July, which means Christmas debuts too. The holiday season is upon us!
Througout the year, and especially during the holidays, some of our Des Plaines neighbors could use extra help. Are there any warm coats or other winter clothing in your home that aren't being used? How about hosting a food drive at your office, school, church or condo building to collect hearty nonperishable foods? Or how about organizing a "white Christmas" paper products drive for toilet paper, paper towels, tissues, period products, etc.? Our neighbors would be grateful for any of these items.
As we roll into the holiday season, we remember that not everyone is full of cheer. Times are tough all over. Food and clothing won't necessarily solve all problems, but at least it's a start.
Debra Walusiak, Executive Director