Story posted Thursday, November 19, 2009
Despite No Pantry Of Its Own, Village Ready, Willing To Help
The Village of Arlington Hts. has no plans to develop its own food pantry, according to one village official.
"As far as I know we just don't have the space and we just defer to the townships," said Carol Jancek, human services coordinator.
Several surrounding townships already have pantries that serve Arlington Hts. residents, Jancek said. That includes Elk Grove and Wheeling townships.
Further, many area churches like St. James Parish and Lutheran Church of the Cross also host food pantries.
"It's just a duplication of services," Jancek said of a possible village food pantry. She added that the possibility hasn't been considered during her five years with the village. "To add another food pantry I just don't think is really necessary."
She said the need isn't for another pantry location, but for more food donations.
Still, many other suburbs, such as Elk Grove and Mt. Prospect, have their own pantries.
But that doesn't mean Arlington Hts. isn't part of the seasonal food drive. Jancek said those wishing to donate but unwilling to drive out to a township office can drop food off at the Health Services Department in Village Hall, 33 S. Arlington Hts. Rd. The food will then be brought to a local pantry.
The village even has its own turkey giveaway program. Twenty-five frozen turkeys and an additional 30 certificates for a free 12 lb. turkey have been given away to 55 Arlington Hts. families in need.
The village also has an adopt-a-family program where residents can sponsor individual families in need to provide food and gifts to that family during the holidays.
Money and toy donations are also accepted. So far this year, Jancek said human services has received a few thousand dollars in donations that will go toward helping families pay vital bills in addition to purchasing food and toys.
"We don't have a full time food pantry but we help with everything else," Jancek said.
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