The old testament prophet Isaiah said, “…if you spend yourselves in behalf of the hungry and satisfy the needs of the oppressed, then your light will rise in the darkness… ” (58:10). Today, we discuss a bright light that shines in the beautiful tree-lined community of Elmhurst, Illinois, the Elmhurst-Yorkfield Food Pantry. In Community that Serves, Ed Ronne joins us as host to interview two board members regarding the founding and history of the pantry, it’s purpose, how it operates, and how it blesses both those in need and those who give. Hunger is more present than we realize and the need is great, maybe even next-door. I invite you to listen to this eye-opening look at the compassion that drives an operation serving over 350 families each month with the help of over 150 motivated volunteers.
Imagine needing to go to a food pantry in order to feed your children, dealing with catastrophic illnesses, or a senior citizen needing to choose between food and medicine. The families of this pantry face these challenges every day. When people come into great need, society often doesn’t want to know. When the need strikes, people can’t believe it has come to this, “… people become more and more invisible. When you give, you get something back I can’t even describe; a light goes on when clients realize someone knows they’re there and cares.“ Kathie Watts says. This reminds me of a question asked in the 2015 Global Leadership Summit, “How is the world a better place, because you’re in it?” I encourage you to make a difference, cast a wider net to help those in need, spend yourselves in behalf of the hungry and satisfy the needs of the oppressed.
If you need food assistance, would like to donate, or volunteer, the pantry is located at 1083 S York Rd, Elmhurst, IL 60126. You may call the pantry at telephone number (630)782-1066. You can also visit their informative website at www.eyfp.org.