State Rep. Dave Vella donates $1,000 to Empower Boone Food Pantry Amid concerns over SNAP Benefits

BOONE COUNTY, IL — September 3, 2026 — State Rep. Dave Vella, D-Loves Park, will donate $1,000 to Empower Boone Food Pantry on Thursday, September 3, 2026, to help support local families facing food insecurity at a time when changes to SNAP benefits could leave some families with fewer resources to put food on the table.

“As families face the possibility of losing or seeing reductions in SNAP benefits, food pantries like Empower Boone are going to become even more important,” said Vella. “For many families, SNAP is the difference between having enough food for the month and having to make difficult choices between groceries and other basic expenses. No family should have to wonder where their next meal is coming from.”

Vella’s $1,000 donation will support Empower Boone Food Pantry and its efforts to provide food and essential resources to individuals and families throughout the community. A $1 donation allow Empower Boone Food Pantry to acquire approximately $8 worth of food.

“Government assistance programs can provide an important lifeline, but when those benefits are reduced or families no longer qualify, the need doesn’t simply disappear,” Vella said. “It often shows up at the doors of local food pantries. I’m proud to support Empower Boone as they work to meet that need and help our neighbors during difficult times.”

The donation comes as families across Illinois and the nation face uncertainty surrounding access to SNAP benefits. For households already struggling with rising costs, a reduction or loss of food assistance can create an immediate hardship.

“Helping our neighbors is something we can all do,” Vella said. “I encourage those who are able to donate, volunteer or otherwise support Empower Boone and other local organizations that are working every day to make sure families have access to food.”

Who: Rep. Vella and Empower Boone Food Pantry

What: Rep. Vella Donates $1,000.00

When: Thursday, September 3, 2026 from 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM

Where: 200 S. Fifth Street, Capron, IL 61012