In a resounding show of community support, the DuPage Township referendum for a new and improved food pantry in Bolingbrook has been projected to pass, according to unofficial results. The referendum, which aimed to replace the existing Romeoville pantry with a larger, consolidated facility in Bolingbrook, garnered an overwhelming 27,505 "yes" votes, far outpacing the 7,394 "no" votes.

Feeding the Hungry, Empowering the Community

Addressing a Growing Need

The DuPage Township food pantry has long been a vital resource for the local community, serving over 1,000 families per month. However, the existing Romeoville location has become increasingly strained, prompting the township to seek a more comprehensive solution. The proposed Bolingbrook facility, set to occupy a 1.46-acre site, will feature a larger food pantry, an office, and a warehouse, allowing the township to better meet the growing demand for its services.According to the township's website, a staggering 20% of families within the township qualify for pantry services, with the current facility serving nearly 8,300 households, or 25,000 individuals, in 2023 alone. The new Bolingbrook location is poised to become a true community hub, catering to the diverse needs of the township's residents.

Securing Funding and Overcoming Challenges

The road to the new food pantry has not been without its obstacles. In January 2024, the Bolingbrook Village Board sent the proposal back to the plan commission, citing concerns over the proposal's completeness and cohesiveness. However, the township has remained steadfast in its commitment to the project, securing federal funding to support the construction of the new facility.Despite the initial setback, the township has continued to work closely with the village to address any outstanding issues and ensure the successful implementation of the project. The overwhelming support from the community, as evidenced by the referendum results, underscores the importance of this initiative and the township's determination to provide a vital resource to those in need.

Serving the Diverse Needs of the Community

The new Bolingbrook food pantry and resource center will not only offer a larger and more efficient space for food distribution but will also serve as a hub for a range of community services. According to the township's website, the facility will house not only the pantry but also an office and a warehouse, allowing the township to expand its reach and better address the diverse needs of its residents.The current Romeoville pantry serves a diverse population, with 70% of its users being Bolingbrook residents, 25% from Romeoville, and the remaining 5% from other parts of the township. The new Bolingbrook location will ensure that these communities continue to have access to the essential resources they require, while also potentially attracting new users from the surrounding areas.

A Vision for the Future

The passage of the DuPage Township referendum marks a significant milestone in the township's efforts to enhance its food pantry services and better serve the community. The new Bolingbrook facility, with its expanded capacity and range of resources, will not only provide immediate relief to those in need but also lay the foundation for a more resilient and empowered community.As the township looks to the future, the successful referendum result serves as a testament to the community's commitment to supporting its most vulnerable members. With the new pantry in place, the township can continue to build upon its legacy of compassion and innovation, ensuring that no one is left behind in the pursuit of a more equitable and prosperous future.