Marie Wilkinson Community Pantry
Free Food For Individuals Facing Food Insecurity
About
The Marie Wilkinson Food Pantry, based in Aurora, IL, has a longstanding history of addressing hunger and supporting the nutritional needs of underserved families and individuals in Kane County and the surrounding areas. Founded over 50 years ago by Marie Wilkinson, a dedicated social and civil rights activist, the pantry continues her legacy of providing essential food assistance to the community. Each year, it serves over 5,200 families and individuals, offering a range of food items to help alleviate food insecurity.
Contact
Website: https://mariewilkinsonfoodpantry.org/
Phone: (630) 897-5431
Addresses: East Side Location: 901 E. Galena Blvd., Aurora, IL 60505; West Side Location: 834 N. Highland Ave., Aurora, IL 60506
Additional Details
Founded in the 1950s by Marie Wilkinson, the pantry has its origins in the civil rights era. Following a life-threatening incident, Marie vowed to dedicate her life to aiding the needy. This pledge laid the foundation for what has since evolved into a crucial community resource. Over the decades, the pantry has grown significantly, continuing to uphold Marie Wilkinson’s legacy by providing essential support to those facing food insecurity.
Today, the pantry not only offers food assistance but also fosters an empowering and inclusive environment that enhances the overall wellbeing of its clients. The dedicated volunteers and staff work tirelessly to ensure that each visitor receives more than just nourishment—they also experience a renewed sense of dignity and community connection.
Eligibility
First-time visitors to the pantry are required to bring a photo ID and proof of residence, which could be a utility bill, rent receipt, or lease agreement showing their current address. The pantry operates on specific days of the week at various locations, allowing guests to visit once per week to collect a variety of groceries including produce, dairy, meats, and dry goods. This pantry also supports the community with special programs and services that accommodate the needs of homebound individuals, allowing them to designate a proxy to collect food on their behalf​. Click the button below to get started.
