New Lenox Food Pantry “Inundated” as Federal Changes Impact Residents

New Lenox Township Board Meeting | Nov. 13, 2025

Article Summary: Trustee Barbara Kaupas reported a surge in demand at the New Lenox Township Food Pantry, attributing the increase to recent federal government actions. Despite a decrease in grocery store donations, the pantry is managing the influx through holiday drives and community support.

Food Pantry Key Points:

• Rising Demand: In October, the pantry served 504 families comprising 1,355 individuals, including 314 children.

• Supply Chain Issues: The amount of food received from grocery stores has seen a decrease.

• Holiday Support: A recent United Methodist Church potato drop provided 1,000 lbs of food, and turkeys will be distributed on November 25.

The New Lenox Township Board of Trustees on Thursday, November 13, 2025, discussed the growing strain on social services, with the local food pantry serving an average of 338 individuals per week in October.

During her report on Programs and Services, Trustee Barbara Kaupas stated that the food pantry has been “inundated” due to recent actions taken by the federal government. Compounding the issue of rising demand is a reported decrease in the amount of food being recovered from local grocery stores.

However, Kaupas noted that the community has entered “Donation Season,” which is helping bridge the gap. Recent contributions included nearly 1,000 lbs of canned items from a Lincoln-Way Central Halloween dance and a donation of peanut butter and jelly from Peace Lutheran Church.

The pantry is currently preparing for Thanksgiving, with turkeys set to be distributed to pre-registered families on November 25.