Feeding the Future: Building Hope for Tomorrow
A Capital Campaign by the Illinois Valley Food Pantry
A Message from Our Pantry
Since 1982, Illinois Valley Food Pantry has served as a place of nourishment, hope, and compassion for individuals and families in crisis.
Our Mission & Story
Our Mission
To combat hunger and give hope to those in need.
Our Story
For more than 44 years, Illinois Valley Food Pantry has been a vital resource for individuals and families in the Illinois Valley. We serve thousands each year with emergency food assistance, offering support with respect and compassion.
Thank You
Thank you for supporting local families. Your generosity makes it possible for us to continue feeding hope and meeting real needs in the Illinois Valley.
Why We Needed a New Home
Our previous building no longer met the growing demand for food support in our community. After a two-year search, we purchased a permanent home located at
4133 Progress Blvd., Peru, IL 61354 that allows us to:
- Expand food storage
- Improve accessibility for all clients
- Offer a welcoming and dignified shopping experience
- Support our dedicated volunteers more efficiently
💳 Ways to Give
All gifts are tax-deductible. Illinois Valley Food Pantry is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
Donate By Mail:
Illinois Valley Food Pantry
4133 Progress Blvd.
Peru, IL 61354
Donate In Person:
Stop by the Pantry during business hours — we’d love to thank you in person.
Donate Online Below: Every gift counts. If everyone receiving this flyer gave just a small amount, we would reach our goal. Thank you!
🎯 Campaign Goal: $750,000
Our original campaign goal was $750,000, and thanks to generous supporters, we have raised a little over half that amount. We are grateful, but a substantial need remains.
🎯Federal Grant Explained
Representative Lauren Underwood secured a $550,000 federal reimbursable grant to help with upgrades and equipment. The Pantry did not receive a $550,000 check. Reimbursable grants require organizations to spend their own funds first on eligible and approved expenditures and then request reimbursement for those expenses. The grant funds cannot be used to purchase food or pay down the mortgage. Your donations remain essential to the Pantry’s financial future.
🙌 How You Can Help
Join the “Feeding the Future” Campaign by making a donation at the most generous level you’re able. Whether you’re part of a business, church, civic group, or a caring individual — your gift makes a real difference.
🙌Wall of Gratitude
Donations, regardless of the amount, are greatly appreciated. Your name, company name, or honoree will be permanently displayed on a wall of gratitude.
Every Gift Counts
All donors will be recognized with heartfelt thanks.
Significant gifts may also be honored on a permanent donor wall in our new facility, but every gift matters and is deeply appreciated.
If everyone receiving this message gave just $50 — about the cost of dining out for two — we would meet our goal.
Thank You for Being the Heart of This Mission
The strength of this region has always been its people — generous, caring, and quick to help. With your support, Illinois Valley Food Pantry will remain a beacon of hope for generations to come.
On behalf of our board, volunteers, and those we serve —
Thank you.
With gratitude,
Mary Jo Credi
Executive Director, Illinois Valley Food Pantry
Help Us Feed the Future
We’re building a new home to serve more families in need.
Join our Feeding the Future: Building Hope for Tomorrow campaign and make a lasting impact in the Illinois Valley.
Scan or click the QR Code to Donate Now

