CHRISTMAS IN THE WARDS EMERGENCY FOOD GIVEAWAY


CHRISTMAS IN THE WARDS EMERGENCY FOOD GIVEAWAY IN CONJUCTION WITH  24th WARD ALDERWOMAN MONIQUE SCOTT, ALDERMAN JASON ERVIN AND STATE REPRESENTATIVE MARGARET CROKE TO SUPPORT FAMILIES IMPACTED BY SNAP UNCERTAINTY

 

Chicago, IL — In response to ongoing uncertainty surrounding the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and its evolving federal guidelines, Christmas in the Wards (CITW) hosted a community food giveaway on Chicago’s West side, Wednesday, November 19, 2025, from 10:30 a.m. to Noon at Sav-A-Lot, 420 S. Pulaski Road.

Supported by Alderwoman Monique Scott (24th Ward), Alderman Jason Ervin (28th Ward), and State Representative for Illinois 12th District, Margaret Croke, this event aims to provide immediate assistance to families facing instability due to recent policy changes and potential disruptions in SNAP benefit distribution.

Through this partnership, CITW will distribute $10,000 in Gift Certificates to families on the south and west sides. Today 80 vouchers valued at $50 each, redeemable in-store for fresh produce, locally sourced goods, and prepared meals; and an additional 120 vouchers valued at $50 each on the Southside at Food 4 Less 7030 South Ashland. Families invited by their respective alderpersons will receive vouchers and shop directly at the market.

The November 19th & 21st events follow CITW’s recent Emergency Food Giveaway in Englewood earlier this month, organized in response to concerns over a potential abrupt halt of SNAP benefits on November 1, 2025. Supported by local elected officials, the event drew widespread attention—including from a local businessman who was moved to action after seeing media coverage. The local businessman donated $10,000 to help ensure area families have food for Thanksgiving and the weeks ahead, after seeing the coverage of the last giveaway when the country was still uncertain if and when SNAP benefits would be distributed. This   contribution will significantly expand CITW’s outreach at a time when families need it most.

SNAP recipients across the nation are experiencing significant changes, including: The end of temporary COVID-19 emergency allotments; Stricter work requirements for able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs); Disruptions linked to the recent government shutdown, which affected benefit access in several states.

As emergency provisions expire and eligibility rules tighten, millions will see reduced monthly benefits. These changes are unfolding against a backdrop of broader global and domestic factors driving food insecurity—including economic instability, rising food prices, supply chain disruptions, and climate-related droughts, floods, and storms.

“Families are already struggling to make ends meet. With the SNAP stoppage and ongoing uncertainty, this is not just a food crisis — it is a humanitarian one,” said Larry Huggins, Founder of Christmas in the Wards. “For 28 years, our mission has been to bring relief and hope to communities across Chicago. We are stepping in once again because no family should go hungry, especially during the holidays.”

Founded in 1997 by Huggins, Christmas in the Wards began as Christmas in Englewood before expanding citywide into a year-round force for good. Over the past year alone, CITW has:

  • Distributed toys, laptops, and essentials to more than 1,000 families at the 2024 Christmas event.
  • Hosted a Spring Giveaway providing clothing and supplies ahead of Easter.
  • Organized Back-to-School distributions offering food, clothing, and everyday necessities.
  • Partnered with community leaders to deliver crisis-response support wherever needed.

During the pandemic, CITW provided thousands of food boxes, PPE kits, small appliances, and essential household items to families across Chicago — work the organization continues today as economic hardship persists.

About Christmas in the Wards

For 28 years, Christmas in the Wards has served as a trusted community uplift initiative providing hope, dignity, and joy to underserved families across Chicago. Through partnerships with elected officials, community leaders, and generous local donors, CITW strives to meet families where they are — especially in moments of crisis.


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