Rotary donates $5,000 to Spartan Food Pantry

SYCAMORE – Using funds raised in celebration of its 75th anniversary, the Rotary Club of Sycamore made a donation valued at $5,000 to the Spartan Food Pantry.

The donation consisted of items needed to expand the pantry’s operational efficiency as well as a cash donation.

Donated items included 10 8-foot tables with storing racks, folding chairs, wire shelving units, a shoe rack and utility wagons, as well as a monetary donation of $2,200. These donations come at a critical time for the pantry.

Originally launched as a fully funded pilot program through the Northern Illinois Food Bank, starting this year, the pantry will have to transition to a fully self-sufficient entity, relying on local donations to continue operations. The donation also is timely due to the recent St. Albans fire, which has left many families in the area without food, shelter, clothing and daily necessities.

The Rotary Club of Sycamore has supported the Spartan Food Pantry since its inception in 2018. Several Sycamore Rotarians contribute to its operation.

Past Sycamore Rotary Presidents Riley Oncken and Eric Jones are founding board members and Beata Palasiewicz serves as its director of operations.