815 Hunger Luncheon Rallies Community Support for Food Pantries
Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara along with members of the 815 Hunger Luncheon Committee, the Greater Rockford Pantry Coalition (GRPC), and the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois (CFNIL) hosted a luncheon fundraising event on Wednesday, October 29, 2025 at Veterans Memorial Hall to raise money to fight hunger in the Rockford area. Over 200 people attended the sold-out event, which raised over $82,000.
“This is not just about one meal or one fundraising luncheon. This is an opportunity for our community to step up and unite at a time when the need is so great. Did you know that 90% of food pantry visitors are currently working either full or part-time jobs but don’t earn enough to meet all their expenses? These are working families trying to balance their budgets and keep food on their tables. Between rising cost of everyday expenses, and reductions in federal and state support, the demand for food assistance is rising steadily. And this is where our community can step up and help,” said McNamara.
There are high hopes for 2026 as there is a new partner in the fight against hunger. Winnebago County Board Chairman Joe Chiarelli is joining Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara in the effort to help our friends and neighbors feed their families. The 815 Hunger Luncheon (formerly known as Mayor's Hunger Luncheon) has a goal of increasing awareness and raising more money for the pantries that serve thousands of Winnebago County residents every year.
How to Support Post-Luncheon Event: 3 Ways!
- Donate by check:
Make checks payable to:
CFNIL (815 Hunger Luncheon in the Memo Line)
C/O 815 Hunger Luncheon, 946 North Second St., Rockford, IL 61107
946 North Second Street - Donate to the New 2026 Campaign!
- Donate to an individual pantry: Complete list located on GRPC website: Greater Rockford Pantry Coalition
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Who Benefits?
Proceeds from this fundraiser benefit are equally distributed among nine local pantries that make up the The Greater Rockford Pantry Coalition (GRPC), serving approximately 25,000 people/visitors per month or 300,000 per year.
About the GRPC: The GRPC was formed in 1994 to feed the hungry, raise awareness about issues surrounding food insecurity, and to pool resources. Together they provide food, compassion, and respect to those in need.
Nine Pantries Include: Rock River Valley Pantry; Christian Unity Pantry; Unity in the Community/Lighthouse Pantry; St. Elizabeth Pantry; Cornucopia Pantry; Salvation Army Pantry; Emmanuel Lutheran Pantry; God’s Glory Pantry; and Soul’s Harbor Pantry.
Donate by check:
Make checks payable to:
CFNIL (815 Hunger Luncheon in the Memo Line)
C/O 815 Hunger Luncheon
946 North Second Street
Rockford, IL 61107
Questions? Email Denise Delanty at ddelanty@outlook.com.
The Mayor's Hunger Luncheon Committee partners with the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois (CFNIL) to collect and process donations. CFNIL is a registered 501 (c) (3); your donation supporting the Mayor’s Hunger Luncheon is fully tax-deductible.