Press

“People Helping People” philosophy stocks the shelves of Loaves & Fishes Food Pantry

NAPERVILLE, IL (August 25, 2015) — Hunger doesn’t take a “summer vacation.” That’s why employees of the Illinois Credit Union System (ICUS) significantly increased their efforts during their annual summer food drive for the Naperville-based Loaves & Fishes Food Pantry. As a result, they donated more than 1,100 pounds of food to help feed their hungry neighbors.

ICUS employees collected the pantry’s most needed items, such as canned goods; potatoes and onions; boxed goods including cereal, rice, and pasta; as well as gift bags containing party favors, decorations and cake serving supplies. These special extras were donated to help bring joy to underprivileged children during times of celebration.

As not-for-profit financial cooperatives, the credit union “People Helping People” philosophy motivates them to support countless community charitable activities and worthwhile causes. It’s unfortunate nearly 100,000 people in DuPage County alone are unsure from where their next meal will come. In addition, with more than 16 percent of the county’s children considered “food insecure”, this food drive was one more way to continue the on-going social commitment of the credit union movement.

“Food connects us all,” said Matthew Chicola, director of external relations at Loaves & Fishes. “The Illinois Credit Union System has demonstrated how powerful this connection is by donating a significant amount of food for low-income client families who struggle to put well-balanced meals on their tables. This donation will put 917 meals on our clients’ plates. That is powerful.”

“This food drive is the perfect intersection of our collective missions,” said Tom Kane, Illinois Credit Union League (ICUL) president/CEO. “Credit unions exist to help people, not make a profit. Our goal is to serve all our members and residents well, including those of modest means. This compassionate act of community service will play an important role in the lives of those who are hungry.”

About Illinois Credit Union League (IUCL)

The Illinois Credit Union League (ICUL) is the primary trade association for 217 state and federal credit unions in Illinois. It focuses on providing legislative and regulatory advocacy, compliance assistance and information, and a wide range of educational and training services to those credit unions, who in turn serve approximately 3.4 million members. More information can be found at www.icul.com.