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

Winter 2025


The dictionary defines gratitude as "the state of being grateful." Recently, we were fortunate to connect with a local nonprofit whose mission is to inspire gratitude in future generations through education and service. Their December service project gifted us with 25 birthday boxes for children of our client families, and there's no doubt those children will be grateful. The Pantry had many other reasons to be grateful during the recent holdiday season:


Practicing gratitude during the holiday season when giving is in full swing comes naturally, but our community offers us many reasons to be grateful the entire year. On behalf of those we serve, all of us at the Self-Help Closet & Pantry of Des Plaines express our heartfelt gratitude. Thank you!!


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