How To Get Free Food When You Have Limited Funds in Illinois
People facing food insecurity may feel like they have no options, given their limited funds. However, there are many ways to secure the food you need. This blog will cover how to get free food with no money in Illinois.
Who Is at Risk for Food Insecurity
In Illinois, 1 in 12 people face hunger. It’s a disheartening statistic and a reality for so many. Oftentimes, families who struggle with food insecurity fall below the federal poverty line. The US Department of Agriculture reported that in 2021, 32.1 percent of households below the poverty line were food insecure. They also reported that Black and Hispanic households as well as single-parent households face higher food insecurity rates when compared to the national average.
How To Qualify for Free Groceries for Pickup vs. Delivery
One of the first things people ask when offered the opportunity to get free groceries is “How do I qualify?” Surprisingly to some, there are no qualifications for services like My Pantry Express. This program was created to help food-insecure households in Northern Illinois based on a self-identified need. In other words, you don’t have to prove that your family needs nutritious food. All you have to do is find a location near you, shop for groceries online, and pick them up on a predetermined date.
While all households facing insecurity are welcome to use My Pantry Express for free online grocery pickup, not everyone can choose delivery. Only some locations offer delivery, and you must live within a 10-mile radius of that location. Keep in mind, this doesn’t stop you from shopping online and placing an order for pickup. Food orders must be submitted online by 8 am, three business days before the pick-up date at the selected location.
Online vs. Offline
Some people may be surprised to learn that they can shop for free groceries online. But it’s true—you can use My Pantry Express to find fresh produce, meat, milk, and other items. It’s easy to use and conveniently online, so you can place an order using any device connected to the internet.
There are also plenty of food pantries that offer on-site shopping for free groceries. There’s likely one near you—click here to find one.
Food Pantries That Offer Online Orders
Alternative Options
Feeding your family on a tight budget is never easy. If you’re not going to use a free service like My Pantry Express, you should consider clipping coupons for extra savings. Some retail grocery stores even offer coupons in-store.
Do you have a green thumb? Put it to use growing your food. There’s nothing fresher than a tomato straight off the vine in your yard. Make it a family activity with your kids and teach them an important life skill.
Popular delivery apps like DoorDash and Uber Eats often offer promotions and deals that make ordering meals more affordable. You can even shop for groceries and have them delivered directly to you. There are also apps like Olio, that allow your nearby neighbors to offer food they don’t plan to use for free pickup.
What Free Foods To Avoid
Looking for a Food Pantry With Pick up and Delivery Options in Northern IL? Order Now!
Ready to schedule your pickup or delivery? It only takes a few minutes to place your order; all you have to do is find a location near you. Place your order by 8 AM at least three days before your location’s pick-up day. Show up with your order confirmation in hand. You’ll find the confirmation number on your screen after placing your order. You can also find it in your order confirmation email. Once you arrive, pull into the designated area and you’ll be taken care of. It’s that easy and free. Place your order today.
