Elijah's Pantry
Elijah's Pantry is a not-for-profit organization serving the hungry living in the Logan Square and Avondale neighborhoods. The pantry started in 1988 as a shelf in a closet. Stocked on this shelf were a few boxes and cans of food the church secretary gave out to people who needed it. Over the years this effort expanded to the whole closet, and finally to its present location, a renovated furnace room in the church's basement. The pantry currently serves over 400 people each month.
During the incorporation process in 1989, it was decided to change the name from St. Luke's Pantry to Elijah's Pantry. Why was the name, Elijah's Pantry, chosen? The experience of those who ran the pantry was not unlike the widow in 1 Kings 17: 8-16. Even when there was no food on the shelves, or money available, and the threat of closing was imminent, somehow food was delivered just in time, and money came from unexpected sources. The pantry directors and workers have always felt this work is blessed by God and that the pantry is God's pantry.
The uniqueness of Elijah's Pantry has been to seek to minister to the whole person. Not only are physical needs important, but we seek to support and counsel the clients' emotional and spiritual needs, too. The workers at Elijah's Pantry frequently assist in finding jobs, housing, sanctuary and sometimes are called upon to become involved with families. Not only do we seek to bring the presence of Christ to those in need, but we also seek to look for the Christ in those we serve.
Corporate Officers
- Pat Kuhlman, President
- Ken Schoy, Vice President
- Jo Ann Metternich, Secretary
- Marguerite Kuhlman, Treasurer
Staff
- Dea Checchin, Director
- Kim Boyd, Assistant Director
- Volunteers
Contributing Churches
- The Lutheran Church of St. Philip, Glenview
- Lutheran Church of the Ascension, Northfield
- Church of the Holy Spirit, Lincolnshire
- Christ Lutheran Church, Vernon Hills
Other Contributors
- Chicago Anti-Hunger Federation
- Greater Chicago Food Depository
- Church members and friends
Boundaries of Service
- Northern: Roscoe St.
- Southern: Fullerton Ave.
- Eastern: Western Ave.
- Western: Kedzie Blvd. (Fullerton to Diversey)
- Kimball Ave. (Diversey to Roscoe)
Hours
- Tuesday and Thursday, 11:00 to 12:00
Phones
- (773) 772-2045, Pantry
- (773) 235-5420, Church Office
