Community Pantry
The library is currently piloting a community pantry: a self-serve cabinet of nonperishable food items available to everyone.
The pantry is located on the first floor near the Dunton entrance and is accessible during library open hours.
Built on a simple model, "take what you need, leave what you can," the pantry makes it easy to give and receive nonperishable, unexpired food items at the library.
The library makes every effort to make sure food is fresh, but please be cautious and check for expiration dates and spoilage. The library is not liable for any harm caused as a result of expired items, food allergies or other concerns.
Acceptable Items
Acceptable Items
- Cans with pop-top lids (soups, vegetables, beans, fruit, tuna, chicken)
- Single-serve or microwaveable meals (mac and cheese cups, oatmeal packets, ready-to-eat grains)
- Shelf-stable milk alternatives (soy, oat, almond)
- Nut butter packets, granola/protein bars
- Pasta, rice, shelf-stable sauces
- Snacks (crackers, dried fruit, nuts, trail mix)
Helpful Considerations
- Label allergens clearly when possible
- Prioritize foods that can be eaten without cooking or with minimal preparation
- Circle the expiration date on the items(s) you are donating
- Please do not leave donations on the floor by the pantry
Items We Cannot Accept
Items We Cannot Accept
- Items requiring refrigeration (milk, eggs, cheese, meat)
- Items with a very short shelf life such as fresh produce
Local Food Pantries
Local Food Pantries
Call 847-392-2344 or email info@northwestcompass.org to access the Food Connection Program at 1300 W. Northwest Highway, Mount Prospect.
Call 847-259-7730 to access the Food Pantry. Food Pantry shopping appointments are Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 9 a.m.–noon or 1–4 p.m.
- If you have registered for the Food Pantry before, please call for an appointment. If you are new to the Food Pantry, please call for registration instructions. Residents using the Food Pantry may return every 2 weeks.
- Emergency Bags of food are distributed Monday–Friday from 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Following distribution of an Emergency Bag, an appointment for Food Pantry registration will be given.
Open to all at 1585 N. Rand Road, Palatine. Open on Thursdays from 4–6 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m.–noon. They also have a mobile pantry. Click the Faith Feeds link for days and times. First time users should bring proof of residency in the northwest suburbs.
Families can visit the We Got You Illinois website for a comprehensive list of food pantries, meal programs, and food distribution partners, including hours and locations, throughout Cook County.
Want to Help?
Want to Help?
Most food pantries welcome donations of nonperishable food as well as monetary donations. If you are able, monetary donations are more effective as they are able to buy food at a lower price than the average person.
Local Food Pantry is open two days per week at the Community Resource Center on Rand Road in Palatine and several mobile locations. Visit Faith Feed's donation and volunteer webpages for more information.
Call 847-259-7730 or email GA@wheelingtownship.com with questions.
- Donations are accepted from Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. in the Supervisor's Office. A most needed items list is available at the Wheeling Township link. If you prefer a monetary donation, checks should be made payable to "Wheeling Township Emergency Fund, Inc.". Food gift cards to Jewel or Aldi in amounts of $25 or less are also appreciated.
Call 847-392-2344 or email info@northwestcompass.org to get involved at 1300 W. Northwest Highway, Mount Prospect.