DP Food Pantry Marks 20 Years

DP Food Pantry Marks 20 Years The City of Des Plaines Self Help Closet & Food Pantry recently held an Open House to acknowledge its 20th Anniversary. From I. to r., are Evalyn Mikes, volunteer; Isabelle Ingles, volunteer; Director Jane Horn; Board Member Rev. William Grice of acknowledge the 20 years of the 1st Congregational Church; Des Plaines Mayor D. Michael Albrecht; Lav- erne & Del Johnson, volunteers, and Betty Tupy, volunteer pose for a photograph at the Self Help Closet & Food Pantry Open House. Volunteers, officials and friends of the Des Plaines Self Help Closet & Food Pantry gathered recently for an Open House commemorating 20 years of service to the City of Des Plaines needy. The Self Help Closet, located in the Old West School Building, 1040 Thacker St., was initially established in 1971 bv the 1st Congregational Church, and volunteers Veta Jacobsen, Jane Horn and Gertrude Grant. Since 1971 there has been an increase in the number of individuals utilizing the pantry causing the Self Help Closet to expand operations in 1987 to their current facility. Many Des Plaines residents have contributed to the efforts of the pantry through donations of food, clothing, volunteer time and money. Additional funding comes from public and private sources. At present, 318 families from corporate Des Plaines are being served. The Open House was held by the Board of Directors to service and also to thank contributors. The Self Help Closet & Food Pantry welcomes volunteers to serve as food distribution handlers; shelf organizers; baggers; client screeners; and drivers with vans. 'For additional information on volunteering, call 827-0764.