Help Us Feed Our Neighbors in Need: Urgent Call for Meal Providers

Every day, thanks to the dedication of volunteers and the generosity of our supporters, Housing Forward provides breakfast, lunch, and dinner to guests of our Interim Housing program (211 S. Oak Park Ave). and at our Emergency Overnight Shelter at the St. Catherine and St. Lucy Rectory (38 N. Austin Blvd.). We are deeply grateful to everyone who contributes meals. It’s no small ask, and your support makes a direct impact.

Right Now, We Need Your Help

Several upcoming meal slots are still unfilled. Whether you're an individual, family, business, or community group, there are several ways to make a meaningful difference.

Cook a Meal

This is a great opportunity for people to come together in support of Housing Forward. Popular dinner options include:

Pasta with meat sauce

Chili and cornbread

Lasagna and salad

Casseroles and side dishes

Interim Housing meals must be individually packaged (40 servings). Shelter meals can be served buffet or family-style (20 servings).

Cater from a Local Restaurant

Support your favorite local restaurants and our guests at the same time. With advance notice, many restaurants can prepare large orders. We recommend picking up the order to ensure it stays hot and arrives at the correct location.

Donate Grocery Gift Cards

Gift cards help our staff purchase non-perishable items to serve when no meals are available. Cards can be mailed or dropped off at our Maywood Office.

Spread the Word

Share our social media posts, mention us when talking about volunteering, or request flyers to distribute at your business, church, or organization.

How to Sign Up

Visit the Volunteer page and use the meal calendar to choose your date, location, and meal (breakfast, lunch, or dinner). Since we cannot store or reheat large quantities of food, it is important that only one meal provider signs up per slot.

Once you sign up, you will receive a confirmation email from Cherrell Jackson, our Volunteer Manager. If you have any questions, please reach out to cjackson@housingforward.org.

Thank you for stepping up to help us feed our community. Your support makes all the difference.