The ongoing federal government shutdown has left millions of Americans without their usual Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, which many rely on for their food purchases. In response to this growing challenge of food insecurity, ABC7 Chicago is launching its annual Feed the Love campaign to aid those in need.

If you’re looking to contribute or participate, you can connect with local food organizations: Visit chicagosfoodbank.org to support the Greater Chicago Food Depository; SolveHungerToday.org/abc7 for the Northern Illinois Food Bank, which serves a range of counties including Lake, Will, and DuPage; or foodbanknwi.org for the Northwest Indiana Food Bank.

Your contributions can play a pivotal role in ensuring families have meals this holiday season and beyond.

With the rising inflation and soaring costs of living, many families are finding it increasingly difficult to afford basic necessities, including food. This makes the mission to eradicate hunger by providing reliable access to nutritious meals more crucial than ever.

Kate Maehr, executive director and CEO of the Greater Chicago Food Depository, expressed gratitude for ABC7’s ongoing support, stating, “As we approach the holiday season and living costs remain high, the demand for food in Cook County continues. ABC7’s Feed the Love initiative is a vital partnership. Together, we can combat hunger and contribute to a truly Greater Chicago.”

Throughout the “Feed the Love” campaign, ABC7 will also shine a spotlight on individuals and organizations dedicated to battling hunger in the community.

“We know this disruption to SNAP benefits is deeply unsettling for families who depend on SNAP,” said Julie Yurko, President and CEO of Northern Illinois Food Bank. “Northern Illinois Food Bank is doing everything we can to fill the gap, but we can’t do it alone. Thanks to ABC7’s partnership, more families will have the food they need and the opportunity to share a special holiday meal with the ones they love.”

To donate or get involved with Greater Chicago Food Depository, visit chicagosfoodbank.org; Northern Illinois Food Bank, visit SolveHungerToday.org/abc7 (serving Lake, Will, DuPage, DeKalb, Kane, McHenry, Kankakee, Grundy, Ogle, Winnebago, Boone, Stephenson and Kendall County counties); or Northwest Indiana Food Bank, visit foodbanknwi.org.