From Cook County Public Health and Human Services - January 28, 2026

In response to heightened community needs during the government shutdown in late October, Cook County Public Health and Human Services (PHHS) organized a Community Food Drive and Pop-Up Food Pantry in the lobby of the Cook County Courthouse. The effort, originally launched to support residents facing food insecurity during the temporary suspension of federal SNAP benefits, saw strong community participation and immediate impact, highlighting the importance of increasing access to food across Cook County. 

PHHS staff and organizers have received positive feedback from the PHHS Board and the community regarding the hours of accessibility and autonomy of choice available at the Pop-Up Pantry. As a result, the Community Food Drive and Pop-Up Pantry will continue to operate as a pilot through April 1st, 2026, in the Cook County Courthouse Lobby.

To better understand and respond to community needs, a brief, anonymous survey has been created to help identify how many individuals are using the pantry and the general areas of the county they call home. The information gathered will help the Cook County Food Access Council, in partnership with community organizations, better understand local food access needs and guide future programs and initiatives to support neighbors facing food insecurity. The survey is completely optional and anonymous. The survey is located at the pop-up pantry, and completed surveys can be deposited in the ballot box next to the pantry.  

Community members can independently access shelf-stable foods and essential items as well as drop off donations during courthouse business hours, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. 

Items Needed:

• Canned soups, fruits, vegetables, beans, meats, and tuna 

• Boxed meals, pasta, rice, mac & cheese 

• Peanut butter, jelly, crackers, cereal, oatmeal 

• Shelf-stable milk, coffee, tea 

• Personal care/household items: soap, toothpaste, toothbrushes, feminine hygiene products, toilet paper, etc. 

• Diapers (all sizes), wipes, formula, baby shampoo 

• Dry or canned dog and cat food 

Please Do Not Donate: 

• Expired or opened items 

• Homemade or perishable items 

• Items requiring refrigeration or freezing 

All items will be available to anyone in need, with no questions asked. Any donations not distributed during the drive will be donated to the Cook County Food Shelf. 

PHHS extends its gratitude to all residents, local organizations, and county staff who contributed to the success of this effort and encourages continued generosity to the Cook County Food Shelf and other food-access organizations year-round. 

For more information, contact Kristina Campbell Mattson, Cook County State Health Improvement Partnership (SHIP) Coordinator, at [email protected].