The recent abrupt closure of two specialty grocers last month has had a notable impact on several local food pantries, highlighting challenges faced by organizations like Care For Real in Chicago.
Care For Real, a food pantry serving the Far North Side neighborhoods, has experienced a substantial increase in demand over the past years. Gregory Gross, the executive director, revealed that the number of individuals served skyrocketed from around 2,900 in fiscal year 2020 to over 12,000 by the end of March this year.
The closure of Dom’s Kitchen and Market and Foxtrot came as a significant blow to Care For Real. Gregory Gross lamented, “Dom’s Market was a crucial partner for us, with almost daily food pickups. Last year alone, Dom’s generously donated approximately 52,000 pounds of food, which supplemented our supplies from the Greater Chicago Food Depository. This included prepacked items that were particularly beneficial to individuals experiencing homelessness.”
With perishable items likely going to waste on the shelves of these closed stores, the Greater Chicago Food Depository, responsible for distributing food to over 800 pantries, soup kitchens, and shelters, expressed concerns about salvaging non-perishable items. Unfortunately, attempts to reach the store owners for cooperation have been unsuccessful.
Man-Yee Lee of the Greater Chicago Food Depository voiced her dismay, stating, “It’s heartbreaking for us to witness unused and unclaimed food left on shelves when the community is grappling with a hunger crisis.”
In response to the closures, Care For Real is actively seeking new retail partners, businesses, or individuals willing to assist in addressing food insecurity issues. Gregory Gross emphasized, “We appreciate anyone who can step up to help us right now.”
The closure of Dom’s and Foxtrot has not only affected local businesses but has also underscored the urgent need for sustainable support systems to combat food insecurity in the community. Organizations like Care For Real are relying on community engagement and partnerships to navigate these challenging times.
