On December 2, The Community Foundation for McHenry County and the Crystal Lake Food Pantry were honored to co-host a visit from Governor JB Pritzker. The Governor visited McHenry County to learn more about local food insecurity and hear directly from community leaders and residents about the challenges affecting families across the region.
This visit follows a Listening Session held in November, hosted by The Community Foundation with Deputy Governor Grace Hou. During that session, nonprofit leaders, service providers, and residents engaged in candid discussion about the challenges facing women, especially single mothers, including food insecurity, childcare gaps, and the impact of benefit reductions. Attendees shared firsthand accounts of how reduced state and federal supports are straining an already overextended safety net.
Following that session, The Community Foundation and the Crystal Lake Food Pantry were notified that Governor Pritzker wished to visit the Food Pantry to further explore these issues.
Governor Pritzker toured the Crystal Lake Food Pantry with Executive Director Jason Weisenberger and his team. He then participated in a roundtable discussion with leaders from organizations including:
– The Crystal Lake Food Pantry
– The Community Foundation for McHenry County
– McHenry County Government
– City of Crystal Lake
– McHenry County Economic Development Corporation
– Harvard Community Unit School District 50
– Northern Illinois Food Bank
– Alliance of Illinois Community Foundations
– East Aurora School District 131
The discussion focused on the increasing need for food assistance, the unique challenges faced by McHenry County residents, and the broader pressures affecting communities throughout the region. A local resident and SNAP recipient shared her experience navigating reduced benefits as a single mother, highlighting the real-world impact of federal policy changes. Leaders also addressed related issues such as workforce housing and other opportunities for long-term community improvement.
“It was an honor to have the Governor visit McHenry County, and especially the Crystal Lake Food Pantry,” said Amy Hernon, Executive Director of The Community Foundation for McHenry County. “Showcasing the dignity and care that the Crystal Lake Food Pantry team provide every day was a powerful demonstration of who we are as a community. We care deeply about our neighbors, and we believe in our shared responsibility to support one another. We were grateful to host the Governor and will continue bringing together cross-sector partners to strengthen our county.”
As we enter the season of giving, The Community Foundation deeply appreciates the Governor’s time and his willingness to listen to local voices. This visit underscores the importance of community collaboration and the need for continued support to help McHenry County families thrive. Now is the time to lean into our community—lend a hand, get involved, and support our neighbors. If you’d like to learn how you can get involved and support your neighbors, reach out to The Community Foundation for McHenry County—we’re always here to connect you with meaningful opportunities. You can also donate directly to The Community Foundation by clicking below.
