Harper Moves Legislation to Improve Food Access and Strengthen Hunger Relief Across Illinois

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. Sonya Harper, D-Chicago, has advanced legislation out of committee designed to strengthen coordination across Illinois’ charitable food network.

“No one, especially people who work hard every day, should have to struggle to put food on the table,” Harper said. “They deserve better. This legislation is a major step toward addressing food insecurity across our state by ensuring the organizations that serve individuals and families facing hunger are better coordinated and working together. In the long run, it will help build a stronger, more equitable food system so families can make the most of every dollar.”

House Bill 5235 would establish the Comprehensive Charitable Food System Coordination Act to strengthen how state agencies collaborate with food banks, pantries, farmers, distributors, and other partners addressing hunger. The legislation ensures that state and federally managed hunger relief funding is distributed in a more coordinated and strategic way by requiring agencies to engage with key stakeholders in the charitable food network. It also encourages the formation of advisory or working groups made up of frontline organizations and prioritizes funding for initiatives that enhance efficiency, collaboration, and equity across the system. Additionally, the bill updates current law to allow the Illinois Department of Human Services to award Hunger Relief Fund grants to both food banks and local food providers, broadening access to vital resources for communities in need.

“This is about reaching people in their communities and making sure local providers have the resources they need to support those around them,” Harper said. “By investing in and strengthening the full network of food assistance, we’re helping people lead healthier lives.” 

The bill now advances to the House for further consideration.