We know that families in Champaign-Urbana are interested in participating in meaningful volunteer experiences, but such opportunities for younger children are not plentiful (although we list some HERE). We have the 411 about one such opportunity coming up in December.
The Eastern Illinois Foodbank’s family repack, Gifts from the Heart, offers families a chance to pause and appreciate the joy of giving to others. On Dec. 9 from 3-6 p.m., families will participate in repacking closed food product (no hairnets or gloves necessary).
And there’s more: Volunteers will read The Mitten Tree, write messages of hope to food insecure families and enjoy cocoa and cookies.
One in five children in Champaign County struggles with food insecurity. Said one former client of the foodbank: “It’s about more than food; it’s about hope. When you are worried about feeding your children, it is hard to think about anything else. The support that I received from Eastern Illinois Foodbank lifted the weight off my shoulders.”
The foodbank also invites the community to make a financial gift to the foodbank. Every $1 equals five meals for families in need. The foodbank will match contributions up to $500.
Space is limited so urgency is suggested to reserve your spot. Two time slots (3-4:30 and 4:30-6) are available.
Click here to reserve a spot.
All repacks are held at the Eastern Illinois Foodbank (2405 N. Shore Drive in Urbana) – click here for directions. The EIF warehouse is located in north Urbana off of Lincoln Avenue on the north side of Interstate 74.