WHAT IS CANNING HUNGER?
Canning Hunger is a “double-impact” outreach strategy that helps fight local hunger and create connections with neighbors—right where you live. This low-pressure, door-to-door initiative gives you a reason to meet people, build relationships, and invite them into something meaningful.
What Does “Double Impact” Mean?
Canning Hunger is more than a food drive—it’s a relational outreach strategy with two powerful outcomes every time you participate:
1. You Fight Hunger in a Tangible Way
By collecting non-perishable food from your neighbors, you’re helping meet a real, physical need in your local community. Every can, box, or bag of food directly supports children and families experiencing food insecurity—right where you live. And because the food is distributed through trusted local partners, you can trust it’s going exactly where it’s needed most.
2. You Build Bridges of Connection
At the same time, you’re creating relational impact by intentionally engaging with neighbors. Knocking on a door to serve others opens the door to conversation, connection, and community. It’s a natural, non-threatening way to meet people, learn names, deepen relationships, and live out your faith in action.
Why It Matters
The “double impact” approach is what makes this effort so unique:
You’re serving a physical need while also opening the door for spiritual and relational opportunities.
You’re blessing your city while also strengthening your block.
You’re showing people what the love of Jesus looks like—through practical help and intentional presence.
Why It Works
It’s natural. Knocking on doors to collect food for hungry families creates a comfortable and friendly way to meet neighbors.
It’s effective. You can’t knock on 10 doors without collecting food and forming or deepening a connection.
It’s local. All food stays in the community where it’s collected—serving your city and your neighbors.
Here’s How It Works
Use the Canning Hunger Cards to share your information.
Knock on the doors of 10 nearby neighbors.
Ask for non-perishable food items or cleaning supplies to help feed local families or college students.
Thank them, collect donations, and bring them to your campus collection point.
Campaign Dates
Materials Available: August 30&31
Last Day to Return Items: September 20&21
Where the Food Goes
Each campus is partnered with a local food pantry or outreach ministry. The food you collect will be distributed through:
St. Charles/South Elgin - Food for Greater Elgin & South Elgin Food Pantry
Streamwood - Hanover Township Food Pantry
DeKalb - NIU College Students
Huntley - Grafton Food Pantry
Aurora - Aurora Interfaith Food Pantry
Joliet - TBD
Register Your Participation
Let us know you’re in! This helps us track the impact we’re making in the community. Click REGISTER below.
Whether you reach 5 homes or 50, every food item and every conversation counts. Join us in bringing hope to your neighbors while helping feed hungry kids and families in your own zip code.
Let’s Make a Difference—Together