The Irving Park Community Food Pantry, which Irving Park Lutheran Church (IPLC) has long supported and is intentionally partnering with to help identify a potential new space, in early summer received news of a $1,035,617 grant from the City of Chicago. The grant may be used to reimburse half the cost of construction of a new facility for the pantry, to be built on land owned by IPLC and adjacent to the church.

 “Feeding the hungry and loving your neighbor are fundamental to our mission as a church,” said IPLC Pastor Erin Bouman. “IPLC and its members have been strong supporters of the Food Pantry since its founding. We are so excited for this next stage of partnership, helping better serve yet more neighbors in need for decades to come.”

A new home for the pantry has been discussed for some time. In February, a subcommittee of IPCL members and pantry leaders applied for funding from the city’s Community Development Grants program. Pantry and IPLC members attended the public announcement with Mayor Brandon Johnson in May. The pantry was one of 10 organizations to receive a grant for which 150 applied. Proposals were evaluated based on financial need, location, neighborhood impact, development team diversity and experience, and overall project readiness.

From 2022 to 2024 the pantry witnessed a sharp increase in demand, with the number of households served increasing by over 90 percent; the number of individuals assisted nearly doubled from 10,922 in 2021 to 21,116 in 2024. It currently serves more than 120 clients each week and 550 each month (approximately 1,550 family members).

The client-choice distribution pantry, primarily serving ZIP codes 60641 and 60618, offers a wide range of food in all categories, including produce, meat, dairy, nonperishables, bread and pastries, toiletries and pet food. It also provides seasonal programs, such as school supplies, winter wear and a health and wellness fair. The pantry, which is currently housed in the basement of an area Methodist church, celebrated its 40th anniversary last fall.

Construction on the pantry’s new facility is anticipated to begin in 2026 and will require additional funding through donations from supporters. IPLC will take a lead role in construction management and financing.