Abbott Donates $250,000 to Combat Childhood Hunger NOW

UPDATE: In an urgent response to escalating childhood hunger, Abbott has just announced a $250,000 donation to the Northern Illinois Food Bank’s BackPack Program. This initiative, launched on October 9, 2023, aims to support needy families with enough food to provide nine to eleven meals per child over the weekends.

The need for such programs has surged in Lake County, where many schools provide free meals to low-income students. However, when weekends arrive, many families face food insecurity. The BackPack Program, primarily funded by Abbott’s philanthropy, fills this critical gap. Jen Lamplough, Chief Impact Officer at Northern Illinois Food Bank, emphasized that the program serves families in 190 schools across nine counties in northern Illinois, including Waukegan, Gurnee, and North Chicago.

Kathryn McKenzie, Vice President of the Abbott Fund, highlighted the urgency of the situation, stating, “Good nutrition is essential for good health. We want to help people live healthy lives.” With this donation, the food bank estimates that approximately 225,000 meals will be provided over the next three months, ensuring that children have access to nutritious food.

Since 2019, food insecurity in the region has reportedly increased by 32%. The COVID pandemic exacerbated this crisis, and as federal relief programs ended, the situation worsened. Lamplough reported that an additional 100,000 people were impacted as inflation drove food prices higher.

Volunteers from Abbott, including 20 employees who participated in the assembly of food bags, are essential to this effort. Each backpack is filled with shelf-stable food items like pasta, canned proteins, and snacks, aimed at creating balanced meals. Jessica Willis, Child Nutrition Program Manager at the food bank, explained that school social workers assess which families are most in need, ensuring that assistance reaches those who require it most.

Brooke Hagstrom, Communications Manager for Woodland Community School District 50, noted that around 42% of students in her district come from low-income backgrounds. “The program promotes stronger student attendance, engagement, and success in the classroom,” she stated. It not only provides food but also strengthens family partnerships, highlighting a community commitment to children’s overall wellbeing.

As Abbott continues to engage in this vital work, the effects of their support are profound. The BackPack Program is not just about providing meals; it’s about ensuring children can thrive academically and socially. With childhood hunger at its highest, Abbott’s initiative represents a crucial lifeline for families facing food shortages.

WHAT’S NEXT: The Northern Illinois Food Bank will continue to distribute these meal-filled backpacks weekly to schools, providing ongoing support to families in need. As food insecurity remains a pressing issue, community involvement and corporate contributions like Abbott’s are vital in the fight against childhood hunger.

This developing story highlights the importance of corporate responsibility and community action in addressing critical social issues. Share this news to spread awareness about the urgent need for support in combating childhood hunger in our communities.