Giving back to the communities in which we live and work is important to Perficient. We even formalized our commitment to giving back by forming a philanthropy based ERG – Perficient Giving. Our Chicago team recently embodied the giving back spirit by gathering at the Greater Chicago Food Depository (GCFD) to pack meals for individuals facing food insecurity.
In addition to their volunteer work, the Chicago team helped support the efforts of GCFD by hosting a virtual food drive. Those that couldn’t volunteer in person showed their support by raising an additional $555! This helped provide 1,665 meals to individuals in need.
What is the Greater Chicago Food Depository?
The Food Depository is part of a united community effort working to bring food, dignity, and hope to Cook County neighbors. They act as the hub for a network of over 700 local food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters, and other programs. These programs provide food where it’s most needed, while also addressing the root causes of hunger.
How did we help?
Perficient Chicago brought a small, but mighty group of colleagues and their family members to volunteer. With a group of about 50 other volunteers, they participated in a “Re-Pack” session. Over the course of three and a half hours, they helped process roughly 11,381 pounds of onions to be distributed to more than 700 food pantries throughout Chicago and Cook County. A total of 9,484 meals were ready for distribution to those dealing with food insecurity because of this effort.
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Mark Beers, project administrator, played a key role in bringing this service effort to life. So, I wanted to ask Mark about his experience with GCFD as this is an organization he is truly passionate about.
Why is it important for Perficient to participate in things like this?
It is important for Perficient to be involved in our communities. Working with the GCFD to help combat food insecurity is a truly worthy cause. Knowing that more of our neighbors than you think might question where their next meal might come from should really upset us. We helped get 11,000 pounds of onions on to tables across the entire county. That feels really great.
What was your favorite part about volunteering with GCFD?
It was a great time. The staff at the GCFD make the work fun. Being a pandemic hire, a big highlight for me was meeting colleagues in person for the first time. Visiting the GCFD is always an amazing experience. Their warehousing and distribution centers are impressive!
For more information on the Greater Chicago Food Depository and ways to get involved, visit their website to learn more.
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