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Community Corner

Hunger Resource Network “Students Helping Students” Campaign Announced

Community invited to support "Students Helping Students" event at Cabo Mexican Cocina, Northbrook on Sunday, Oct, 12th, 11 am – 1 pm.

Local high school students will collect prepared bags of personal care items at “Students Helping Students” event at Cabo Mexican Cocina in Northbrook on Sunday, Oct. 12 at 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Local high school students will collect prepared bags of personal care items at “Students Helping Students” event at Cabo Mexican Cocina in Northbrook on Sunday, Oct. 12 at 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. (Courtesy of Hunger Resource Network)

Hunger exists in every community in America and Northbrook is no exception.

There are more than 500 students in the Northbrook public schools who are on the free or reduced lunch program and are food insecure. Hunger Resource Network, a Northbrook-based non-profit organization, is currently serving over half of these students across the twelve public elementary and middle schools through its Student Food Pack program.

Local high school students have decided to help these Northbrook students in a special way this fall. Their goal is to collect prepared bags of personal care items for them. A team of high school students will be hosting a “Students Helping Students” event at Cabo Mexican Cocina, 3147 Dundee Road, Northbrook on Sunday, October 12th from 11 am – 1 pm.

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“As a longtime member of the Northbrook community, I believe it’s our responsibility to take care of each other, especially our kids," said Nick Drivas, owner of Northbrook's Grill House (to drop-off completed and or fill bags) and Cabo Mexican Cocina (to fill bags). "Knowing that so many local students face food insecurity is heartbreaking, and I’m honored that Grill House and Cabo can play a part in helping," he added.

"Partnering with these incredible high school students and the Hunger Resource Network shows what’s possible when we come together. This isn’t just about meals. It's about giving hope, dignity, and support to families right here at home.”

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The students have a few simple requests for those who would like to help:

  • Purchase the list of personal care items found on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram; please follow the contents and packaging guidelines. Total cost is approximately $35.
  • As a fun alternative, bring a $35 donation to Cabo Mexican Cocina and you can build a bag with us! And you’ll receive the $50 worth of gift cards mentioned above if you’re among the first 100.
  • From 11 am to 1 pm, be among the first 100 people to either bring your completed bag to Cabo Mexican Cocina or Grill House or donate at least $35 and receive $50 worth of gift cards, $25 for Cabo Mexican Cocina and $25 for Grill House (redeemable anytime after October 13th).
  • Please help us spread the word. We need your help to reach our goal of 250 bags!

If you are not able to join us but would still like to help, simply go to our website and click on the Donate button to contribute $35 for each bag. Please indicate it is a personal care bag donation.

Please look for upcoming posts on the Hunger Resource Network and Grill House/Cabo Mexican Cocina Facebook and Instagram pages and join us on Sunday, October 12th.

Learn More About Hunger Resource Network: Providing Protein to Those in Need

HRN is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to working in partnership with corporations and individuals who share a commitment to feed the hungry. Its mission is to aid in the alleviation of hunger by helping meet the needs of food pantries, soup kitchens, and shelters.

Twice each year, HRN hosts “Poultry to Pantries Day” when a total of 240,000 pounds of frozen chicken is distributed to approximately one hundred organizations providing food to those in need throughout Chicagoland.

Established in 1996, HRN has dozens of businesses, foundations, local organizations, and individuals all known as “Hunger Heroes” who are benefactors.

For additional information or to volunteer, contact HRN at 847-272-1700 or visit our website. Click here to donate to help us provide protein to those in need.

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