United Way of Champaign County Invests $20,000 to Feed Local Families and Challenges Community to Match It
Champaign, IL — November 3, 2025 — United Way of Champaign County has completed this season’s Farmers Feeding Families harvest and is immediately investing $20,000 from the harvest to help feed local families through trusted community food partners.
At the same time, United Way is challenging the community to match that $20,000, ensuring even more food reaches our neighbors who need it most.
With approximately 9,500 Champaign County households — nearly 20,000 people — relying on SNAP benefits to afford groceries, many are facing uncertainty as the federal government shutdown continues. United Way is stepping up with an immediate response to strengthen the safety net for local families.
Funds from United Way’s initial $20,000 gift will be distributed to Eastern Illinois Foodbank, Community Service Center of Northern Champaign County, Feeding Our Kids, Centennial High School Pantry, and the Tiger Market at Urbana High School — organizations working every day to ensure children and families across our community have access to healthy, reliable food.
“Our mission has always been to unite people and resources to strengthen our community,” said Sue Grey, President & CEO. “We’re starting with a $20,000 investment, and we’re asking our community to match it — dollar for dollar — so we can double the impact and keep food on the tables of local families.”
100% of every donation will go directly to local food banks and pantries serving Champaign County families. Even if SNAP benefits are restored, every dollar will still be distributed to these trusted partners to sustain their vital work.
“Twenty thousand dollars for twenty thousand people — that’s our goal,” said Grey. “This isn’t about us. It’s about standing with our neighbors and doing what’s right, right now. We’re a trusted community partner, and together, we can make sure no one goes hungry.”
How to Help
To join the challenge and help match United Way’s $20,000, click here or visit our website.
Or mail a check to:
United Way of Champaign County
5 Dunlap Court, Savoy, IL 61874
All gifts will directly support food security efforts for families in Champaign County.