Page 7 - 3Q 2017 Reporter

July The Central IL Food Bank

June 7, 1982 Central Illinois Foodbank first
opened its doors, its mission remains essen-
tial: to collect and distribute food to charita-
ble organizations serving people in need. In
the beginning, its assets were modest: bor-
rowed warehouse space
at a local Franciscan mon- Aug  The Sojourn House
astery; three dedicated
staff members; and 2,000 Sojourn was founded in 1975 as a result of a grassroots effort by con-
pounds of apple cobbler cerned citizens in the community. The primary goal was to provide a safe
mix. But even in its first place to help victims of domestic violence. Initially working toward a
year of operation, Central drop-in meeting place for women to gather, the need for shelter from
Illinois Foodbank man- domestic violence became evident.
aged to distribute some 65,000 pounds of
food per month. Today, the Foodbank has Since then, the Sojourn House has broadened their mission to build a
increased its capacity greatly, distributing community free of violence through service, leadership and education.
over 8.5 million pounds of food to area feed- With an expanded mission, they increased services by offering advocacy
ing agencies in 2013 alone. support, children’s program, on-call response and transportation, non-
residential services, prevention and awareness training, community part-
nerships and volunteer opportunities.

“I’ve learned that you shouldn’t

go through life with a catcher’s
mitt on both hands; you need to Sept  Kumler Outreach Ministries
be able to throw something
back.” Kumler Outreach Ministries strives to help the at-risk population of the greater
Springfield community overcome the physical, social, emotional and spiritual
– Maya Angelou obstacles they face.

Kumler Outreach Ministries meets people where they live,
feeding the hungry, caring for the sick and helping clothe
people. The food pantry, clothing ministry and medicine
pro gram reach thousands of people each year in the
greater Springfield.
The pantry is a choice pantry, meaning individuals choose
their food rather than being given a pre-packaged bag or box of food. Choice is
empowering and helps cut down on waste. Clothing donations help to fill the
gaps for people trying to stretch their budgets. Partnering with local community
gardens has brought together people from all stations in life the chance to work
together and get to know one another.

We at the League are a pretty caring group of folks and how better to keep that spirit going than to
give back a little? Thanks to all who contributed to making Springfield a place of community.

https://www.facebook.com/IllinoisLeague

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Third QuarTer 2017 IllInoIs RepoRteR