Stories of Philanthropy

As we close another impactful year, we are filled with gratitude for the support that has empowered Loaves & Fishes Community Services to uplift thousands of families across DuPage, Kane, Kendall, and Will counties. Together, we have reached extraordinary milestones—serving over 10,000 individuals weekly, marking a significant increase from prior years. This season of giving and celebration is especially meaningful, as it coincides with Loaves & Fishes’ 40th anniversary.

Nancy Wiersum, Executive Vice President of Advancement for Loaves & Fishes Community Services, is set to retire on February 28, 2025, after serving in the position for eight years.

Give the Gift of HOPE The Holiday Season is approaching!  Your gift will provide a family with a complete Holiday meal and, more importantly, the gift of HOPE! Make a monetary donation here or visit our Virtual Food Drive and select the Holiday Meal.  

As September begins, we observe Hunger Action Month, an initiative by Feeding America to mobilize communities nationwide to tackle hunger. This month reminds us that food insecurity is not just a distant issue—it’s happening in our neighborhoods.

  https://tinyurl.com/Napmagazine Naperville Magazine 2024

Loaves & Fishes – Summer and Food Insecurity: A Growing Challenge

Celebrating its 40th Anniversary this year, Loaves & Fishes Community Services remains a beacon of hope for 8,000-9,000 individuals each week by providing healthy food and impactful programs to promote self-sufficiency. As the largest food pantry in Illinois, its impact resonates far and wide.

In 1984, a dedicated group of compassionate members of St. Raphael Catholic Church realized there were families without enough food, so they assembled a small food pantry in a closet of the church. Today, 40 years later, Loaves & Fishes is serving more than 8,000 people each week in DuPage, Kane, Kendall, and Will Counties. There are 2.3 million people in these four counties and 1 in 5 people are in low-income/poverty. The story of how Loaves & Fishes went from “there to here” reflects thousands of people who were inspired to join along the way making a profound difference to those in need.

Loaves & Fishes Community Services is pleased to announce the appointment of Megan Lynch as Vice President of Strategic Partnerships effective November 20, 2023.