Coronavirus: 'Free' Pantry Near Grayslake Business Helps Locals

GRAYSLAKE, IL — As grocery stores and pharmacies across Lake County work hard to restock their shelves with cleaning supplies, water and food during the coronavirus pandemic, a Grayslake business is giving people passing through the Wildwood area hope and positivity, thanks to a "free pantry." The family-owned Yincolines Bounce Houses, located in the 33000 block of Eastview Avenue, set up the pantry — a table holding several items, including water, canned food, beans, and more, for community members to take items they need during this tough time.

Patch reached out to the family Friday, three days after a photo of the pantry was shared on Facebook. On Friday afternoon, the family said there are still some water bottles, canned food, lentils, beans, and cat food. These items and the free pantry's initial supply came from the family's home pantry.

According to the family, people have been very respectful and take just a couple of things here and there.

When it comes to whether community members are replenishing the pantry, the family remains positive and said they realize during uncertain times folks would rather preserve their provisions, adding that their whole intention was and continues to be that a positive attitude can still be spread amid a pandemic.

Another local family seems to be following suit, with a similar set up outside their Grayslake home.

In a statement posted to Facebook Tuesday night, the family said their bounce houses won't be available for rent until further notice, to help protect the health of their customers during the coronavirus pandemic.