Northern Illinois Food Bank’s 27th Annual Hunger Scramble Golf Outing & Pickleball Classic Raises Over $160K

Northern Illinois Food Bank’s 27th Annual Hunger Scramble Golf Outing and inaugural Smash Hunger Pickleball Classic, presented by Old Second National Bank, drew over 200 participants and raises over $160,000 for hunger relief through sponsorships, registrations, contests, raffles, auction, and generous donations. Proceeds are enough to provide $1.3 million in groceries to neighbors experiencing food insecurity.

The Food Bank’s signature golf fundraiser and inaugural pickleball tournament was held at White Eagle Golf Club in Naperville, IL. Participants enjoyed a beautiful day with on-course tastings, giveaways, fun games, and an award banquet.

Northern Illinois Food Bank is deeply committed to ending hunger and empowering neighbors to thrive. Across the country, more than 50 million people turned to food banks last year, the highest level in a decade, according to Feeding America. Locally, Northern Illinois Food Bank’s network of 900 food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters, and feeding programs provided over 93 million meals last year, reaching an average of 572,000 neighbors each month.

“Fighting hunger is a challenge that requires all of us, and this event was a true reflection of what’s possible when our community comes together. Thanks to the support of our sponsors, golfers, picklers, volunteers, and partners, we are helping ensure neighbors throughout Northern Illinois have the food they need to thrive,” said Colleen Ahearn , Chief Philanthropy Officer at Northern Illinois Food Bank.

Old Second National Bank returned as the presenting sponsor. Other sponsors included Reception Sponsor, Raymond James, Inc.; Hunger Scramble Eagle Sponsors: Caterpillar, Huntington National Bank, Menasha, and Tito’s Handmade Vodka; and Smash Hunger Rally Sponsors: Audacy and Middleby. We are also grateful to our food and beverage sponsors: Al Fresco, FACTOR_, Molson Coors, Boston Beer Company – Sun Cruiser, Hell’s BBQ, Taylor Farms, That’s Caring, and Tito’s Handmade Vodka for keeping players fueled throughout the day.

For more information about Northern Illinois Food Bank visit SolveHungerToday.org.