INB and the Salvation Army are teaming up through June 15 to collect donations of non-perishable food items which can be dropped off at all INB Sangamon County branches.

Envoy Jeff Eddy, Director of The Salvation Army Clear Lake Corps and Community Center in Springfield, sees the impact of food insecurity every day. Not long ago, the pantry served about 25 families per day. In the last year, the number jumped to 45 families.

“Over the last month, we’ve been seeing in excess of 80 families a day — when we have food,” Jeff says. “That’s about 300 people who rely on us for emergency food supplies to last three days. That’s 2,700 meals. And what’s more startling is that a third of those people haven’t visited in over a year. The need is growing fast — and it’s hitting families you wouldn’t expect.”

Stocking Shelves; Filling Stomachs 

To keep up with the demand, The Salvation Army is aiming high: collecting 100,000 pounds of non-perishable food to keep the pantry stocked for the next six months.

“Having a stable food supply means we can focus on helping people move toward long-term solutions,” Jeff explains. “Every box we hand out isn’t just about the food — it’s a moment to connect, offer support, and help someone begin a path toward self-sufficiency.”

The pantry on Clear Lake Ave. serves anyone in need, providing a box of essentials once per calendar month, or more in emergencies. Each box can be a lifeline.

Jeff shared a story that continues to drive his passion for this work:

“A mother called 211 (the United Way’s help line) and found out about our pantry. She had been a stay-at-home mom, and when her husband was injured, they used up their savings just trying to get by. She had no idea how to ask for help. But when she came in and saw that she could walk out with food — with dignity — she broke down in tears. That moment re-energized our entire team. That’s the mission. That’s why this matters.”

Simple, Shelf-Stable Foods Preferred

When choosing what to donate, think shelf-stable and simple to prepare. Jeff recommends:

• Boxed dinners (like mac and cheese or Hamburger Helper)
• Pasta and jarred sauces
• Canned vegetables and soups
• Cereals and oatmeal
• Ramen noodles

“These may seem basic, but for families where both ends of the candle are burning, having a meal that’s quick and easy to prepare can relieve a lot of stress,” he says. “We also aim to provide as much nutritional value as possible with the resources we get.”

How INB Is Helping — And How You Can Join Us

INB is supporting this initiative by placing collection boxes at every Sangamon County branch. Jeff says, “INB’s support means we can reach more people, and help more families.” He adds: “Food insecurity doesn’t just affect the poor. I recently spoke with a professional chef involved in this effort who shared that they’ve had to use the pantry before. This issue touches every corner of our community.”

You can also get involved through The Salvation Army’s “Fill the Truck” events at Hy-Vee stores or by volunteering at the pantry.  Sign up to volunteer at bit.ly/sahyvee.

Cash donations can be accepted at 1600 Clear Lake Ave, Springfield, in person or by mail.  You can also donate online at: salarmy.us/springfieldfooddrive.