No Food, No Heat, No Shelter--where to Get Help in Rockford Illinois

These are rough times. Unemployment is on the rise, as well as the costs of gas, electricity, and food. Perhaps your food supply is running low, or you have none at all. Your utilities have been shut off, or you don't have anywhere at all to go. Some people are just beginning to struggle, and some are already on the streets. Some may not qualify for public assistance and food stamps (LINK). You're not alone, but you feel alone, alienated and let's face it, you're hungry. Here's some good news for those of you that have to choose between paying the rent and eating this year. You won't go hungry in Rockford.

Rockford seems to have it together when it comes to making sure people have something to eat. Holiday food baskets are passed to the needy through a variety of agencies, but holidays aren't the only time people suffer from hunger. Fortunately, there are people in the Rock River Valley who are able and generous enough to share. You can learn more about these food pantries http://www.businessrockford.com/multimedia/x792890001/More-white-collar-workers-walk-through-food-pantry-doors Food pantries have specific visit policies, and guidelines regarding how often they can be visited. You can utilize many of these pantries and alternate to supplement your needs. Please understand that these are donations from the public, if you must make use of these pantries, try to do your part by volunteering for them once in a while. It will help your self esteem to know that you've done your part for the community, and it will help others.

Some of these pantries also have a clothing donation program for those who demonstrate a need for warm winter clothing. The Rockford Rescue Mission also has a resale store that has clothing, as does the Salvation Army and the Goodwill. If you are unable to pay for clothing you may contact any one of these agencies, and they can direct you as to where clothing can be obtained at low cost, or no cost. Salvation Army also has the Koats for Kids drive to ensure the area children in need have warm outerwear during the cold months.

Soup kitchens are an alternative for those who are homeless and have no means to prepare food given by pantries, as well as for those who have exhausted their supply and don't yet qualify for a visit to the pantry. There are several located in Rockford, that can be located by searching the Northern Illinois food bank website at
http://www.northernilfoodbank.org/menu-top-gethelp-getfood-Winnebago.asp

There is limited assistance for the homeless in Rockford as well, providing shelter at various locations throughout the Rockford area. The Rockford Rescue mission has various programs and assistance for the homeless, including a shelter, as well as the American Red Cross. It's advisable to call ahead during the cold winter months, or arrive early nearby to ensure a place to stay. Listings of Illinois homeless shelters can be found at http://www.homelessshelterdirectory.org/illinois.html The Rockford Rescue mission also offers assistance for those wishing to obtain a GED, and rehabilitation services for those suffering from addictions.

If you are having trouble with utility bills you can try contacting the Department of Human resources, however priority is given to the elderly and handicapped. You can also try working with the utility company to find a resolution to your problem. Sometimes the companies will allow you to pay the outstanding balance in monthly installments in addition to your current monthly bill, and for some people this is an option. Cutting back just a little more might save you some trouble in the long run. The contact number for Rockford Department of Human Resources is (815) 987-5711 or contact the IHEAP Information Hotline at (815) 987-5501.

The Rockford Public Library or many of their branches can offer the use of computers to look for employment options and apply for jobs online. You may sit and read and enjoy the comfort and warmth of the public library during the daylight hours, and it's a free activity that will keep your mind active.

For further information, or if you can help, please contact the agencies mentioned in this article. Donations of food are greatly needed and demand will be much more urgent during the fall, and after the holidays, as charitable donations markedly decrease after the gift giving season