The Western Illinois Regional Council (WIRC) and the Good Food Collaborative (GFC) said they plan to open a choice-based food pantry at the Regional Council’s offices at 133 West Jackson Street in downtown Macomb.
The GFC will begin moving into the space in late December. It should open early in 2023.
The space, formerly housed WIRC’s clothing center, will be remodeled to look like a grocery store. All the food items will be free to people in need.
Roger Pavey, WIRC Executive Director, said in a release that the pantry will be unlike anything previously offered in Macomb.
The GFC said it will also continue to deliver food to households that cannot make it to the store due to transportation or health issues. The group said it currently serves 500 people per week with its mobile food pantry.
In addition, the WIRC will work with the GFC to market the program and seek grant funding opportunities.
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