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Healthy food is key to healthy communities, However, in many areas of Chicago, it’s hard to find
food that is both nutritious and affordable. But even food deserts can bloom with community support-and a boost from a former president.
Many Little Village residents are challenged by food insecurity in normal times, but with the COVID-19 pandemic devastating many incomes, more residents turned to food pantries. New Life Community Church operated a pantry in the area for a decade through donations from Trader Joe’s and was struggling to meet the increased demand. Then, Former President Obama highlighted their work on Instagram-leading to an influx of donations and a new partnership with the Greater Chicago Food Depository.
A group of volunteers, led by young people who had attended New Life’s after-school programs, began feeding 6,000 families per week out of an outdoor site by the Church, along with six other sites. However, a more permanent solution was needed. So they built Pan De Vida, aka “bread of life,” a food pantry that functions like a grocery store by letting guests choose the food best suited for their families.
Pan De Vida’s space is designed to celebrate Hispanic culture and the Little Village community. Murals adorn the interior and exterior of the spaces, including one on the outside of the building dedicated to collaboration between Black and Latinx communities.
“The idea was to create a warm, inviting space that would make visitors feel valued, not ashamed,” said Diana Franco, Food Pantry Administrator.
Pan De Vida is much more than a food pantry. Not only does it offer on-site wrap-around services, but it also offers leadership opportunities for young residents. Many started with New Life programs as adolescents and now manage the space, ensuring it is fully stocked and meets visitors’ needs.