ROCKFORD, Ill. (WIFR) – A local nonprofit that helps families put food on the table says there is still a lot of work to do on their to-do list before they can move.
On Tuesday, Northern Illinois Food Bank officials said they hope to be at their new location, the former K-Mart at 1397 Sandy Hollow Road in Rockford, by the end of 2024.
“Our new space is 50% larger than what we’re currently in. What’s most important to me is that we now have space where people can shop for fresh and nutritious food, while we have people sorting and processing fresh, nutritious food to get it to market,” said Julie Yurko, president and CEO of the Northern Illinois Food Bank. “And while in the back, neighbors can pick up online orders and agencies can come by and pick up food,” Yurko said.
During Tuesday’s event, Illinois State Senator Steve Stadelman announced that $50,000 in state funds will be used to relocate the Northern Illinois Food Bank. Stadelman said the new location is a much-needed improvement that will impact the entire region.
“If you’ve been in the current facility, you know it’s small, cramped and overcrowded. I don’t know how they’ve managed to do this for the last few years,” said Senator Stadelman. “The need is there, and this will really help.”
The Northern Illinois Food Bank operates four locations, including the Northwest Center at 765 Research Parkway in Rockford. Yurko says the lease on that location expires at the end of the year.
Before the Northern Illinois Food Bank can move, Yurko said the organization must hire contractors and raise another $350,000 to reach its fundraising goal.
Anyone who would like to support the food bank’s move can donate on their website.
According to Feeding America, about one in seven people in the Winnebago County area are food insecure. If you or someone you know needs help, visit the Northern Illinois Food Bank website.
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