Community food shelf table available at Cook County YMCA
Apr 17, 2026 10:17AM ● By Content Editor
Earlier this month, the Cook County YMCA announced it will host a food shelf table for anyone looking for local food support. The announcement comes following this month's planned end of the Cook County Public Health and Human Services food drive and the unexpected closure of Ruby's Pantry.
According to Cook County YMCA Executive Director Amanda Hand, the organization has had the table available for a while and has been discussing phasing it out and returning the area to lobby use. However, Hand noted that as local circumstances shifted, the YMCA decided to maintain the resource. The table is now expected to remain in place indefinitely to help fill the gap in community food resources.
The table is on the left side of the hallway, between the two sets of entry doors, just past the area where children’s snacks are kept and before the entrance to the Community Room. This resource is open to the entire public, and Hand confirmed that community members do not need to be YMCA members to pick up items or drop off donations.
Because the YMCA does not have refrigeration available for this program, Hand said that only non-perishable, shelf-stable food and commercially packaged goods are accepted. No homemade items or expired items should be placed on the table.
In addition to food, new, in-packaging toiletry and hygiene products are welcome. All contributions must be of a size that allows them to be contained on or directly under the table, ensuring the lobby remains clear for foot traffic.
The table is accessible during standard YMCA hours, which are currently Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
