What food items can be donated?

We can accept meals, snacks, etc. commercially prepared by a restaurant or food service company. Grab and go items such as sandwiches, burritos, cookies, etc. are ideal.

*WE AIM TO SERVE CULTURALLY APPROPRIATE HOT MEALS (5) DAYS A WEEK

We cannot accept homemade food items.

 

How do the meals/treats need to be packaged?

All items must be wrapped for individual servings, ideally with one meal/item per bag/box. Individual wrapping can be in to-go containers, cellophane, etc. Wrapping must be done by the restaurant during food preparation.

We cannot accept buffet or serve-yourself items such as pizza, large trays of unwrapped food, etc.

 

When and where should I drop off Meal Donations?

Please make these following arrangements for food deliveries OR if you need to arrange for the meals to be picked up:

• Contact JAZMINE- at HELP@startherechicago.com or 312-809-9969 

• Pick Ups will be scheduled between 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. unless special arrangements are made.

• We will need to know the anticipated date/time, the items provided, and the cell number of the restaurants contact person.

• Let us know if you would like a receipt for your donation.

 

Can I deliver the items personally?

We are currently working on a volunteering program. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact help@startherechicago.com

 

Who will receive the donations?

Food donations are being distributed among Migrants on an as needed, rotating basis. We will include areas such as overflowing Police Stations, arriving Migrants, designated Migrant Shelters, and more.

 

Can I donate gift cards instead of food?

Gift cards in denominations of $10 for Dunkin’, McDonalds, Walgreens, CVS, Visa Cards (for laundry) are welcome.

 

Can I donate items other than meals?

To find out what donation items are needed please visiting the SHOP FOR US portion of our website, www.startherechicago.com/shopforus.

Or contact Jazmine at 312-809-9969 or HELP@startherechicago.com.