Onward House, a social service organization in Belmont Cragin, has seen a significant increase in demand for its food pantry in recent years. To address this need, the organization launched a free monthly farmers market in its parking lot, serving over 2,000 people and distributing over 25,000 pounds of food in the first 10 months.

Supporting Families in Need

The market, which is open to anyone, provides fresh produce to families who have been affected by cuts to the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. According to Gerbis Badell, the organization’s director of community services, many families are struggling to make ends meet, and the market helps to fill the gaps in their nutrition.

The market is made possible through funding from the Reva and David Logan Foundation and partnerships with local farmers and distributors. Onward House receives produce from The Common Market, a nonprofit wholesale distributor that sources food from within 250 miles of Chicago.

Expanding Services

Onward House is also expanding its services to include a new $7.5 million CARES Community Center, which will feature a demonstration kitchen, a rooftop garden, and an expanded food pantry. The center will provide a comprehensive approach to addressing food insecurity and promoting healthy living in the community.

The farmers market will move to the CARES parking lot once the center opens, and both the pantry and the market are expected to grow as a result of the new facility. Onward House is always in need of more volunteers to support its efforts, and community members can learn more about volunteering on the organization’s website.

Original reporting: Block Club Chicago — read the source article.