Elijah Jones is a regular volunteer at the Pantry. He started volunteering two years ago as a junior at Proviso West High School and never stopped! Elijah is now a full-time student at Triton College and will pursue a degree in architecture.
“Volunteering made me more aware of hunger in our area. Every time I come here I know what to expect and that I’m going to enjoy my time at the Pantry.” Elijah can be found at the Pantry 2-3 times every week, helping with clients, carts, deliveries and more. “It’s fun to help out!”
La Grange Park resident Diane Zylstra has been volunteering for three years. Her friend and fellow volunteer Sharon got her started, and Diane was hooked from there! “What really amazes me about the Pantry is all the food reclamation. We are able to give out much more food to our clients, and help the environment in the process.”
In addition to volunteering for client service, Diane helps with fundraisers such as the Souper Bowl, artisan markets and Thanksgiving fundraising at Jewel. “I like the clients and the volunteers. I feel really good about volunteering–I’m doing something useful for my community. The Westchester Food Pantry is really a good cause!”
