University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Driving Hope: The Outreach House Van and the Fight Against Food Insecurity

Zubrickas, Ian

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https://hdl.handle.net/2142/128148

Description

Title
Driving Hope: The Outreach House Van and the Fight Against Food Insecurity
Author(s)
Zubrickas, Ian
Issue Date
2025
Keyword(s)
Food Security
Date of Ingest
2025-05-08T11:25:48-05:00
Abstract
The Outreach House in Lombard, Illinois, is a grocery-style food pantry that serves more than 500 households each week. Its van is crucial because it collects donations from stores like Costco, Jewel, and Aldi, reducing food waste and providing food to those in need. Volunteers, including myself, sort and stock food, ensuring a great experience for families.I've volunteered for more than 75 hours, helping with anything from sorting nasty vegetablesto helping move pallets. My desire to combat food insecurity, which impacts millions of people, especially low-income families, has been strengthened by this experience.My research focuses on using technology to connect individuals with food pantries, healthcare professionals, and local resources through an app. The goal is to improve access to nutritious food, helping combat chronic diseases like hypertension and diabetes, which disproportionately impact low-income communities.The Outreach House demonstrates how community efforts can fight hunger, but long-term solutions require innovation. By combining direct food aid with technology, we can create solutions that ensure both immediate relief and long-term health benefits. Access is only one aspect of food insecurity; other factors include dignity, health, and a brighter future.
Type of Resource
  • still image
  • text
Language
eng
Copyright and License Information
Copyright 2025 Ian Zubrickas

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