CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (Chambana Today) — Today marks Giving Tuesday, a global day of generosity, and Champaign-area nonprofits are calling on the community to lend a hand to those who need it most. From hot meals and warm coats to emergency shelter and healthcare, local organizations are working tirelessly to ensure no one is left behind this holiday season.
Food Assistance and Hot Meals
- Daily Bread Soup Kitchen serves hot lunches seven days a week at 116 N. First St., Champaign. Learn more or donate at dailybreadsoupkitchen.com.
- Eastern Illinois Foodbank, based in Urbana, distributes food to over 220 programs across 14 counties. Details at eifoodbank.org.
- Faith United Methodist Church Food Pantry provides emergency groceries at 1719 S. Prospect Ave., Champaign. Info at faithuccchampaign.org.
- Grace Lutheran Church Pantry offers drive-thru food distribution every Thursday. Visit gracelutheranchampaign.org.
- Restoration Urban Ministries combines food and clothing assistance at 1213 Parkland Ct., Champaign. Learn more at restorationurbanministries.org.
Clothing and Basic Needs
- Empty Tomb, Inc. provides free clothing for families in need. Details at emptytomb.org.
- Land of Lincoln Goodwill offers affordable clothing and household goods at 912 Anthony Dr., Champaign. Visit llgi.org.
Community Support and Youth Services
- United Way of Champaign County funds programs for health, education, and financial stability. Donate at unitedwaychampaign.org.
- Don Moyer Boys & Girls Club provides after-school and summer programs for local youth. Learn more at www.dmbgc.org
Healthcare for the Uninsured
- Champaign County Christian Health Center offers free medical care for uninsured residents. Support their mission at ccchc2003.org.
Why It Matters
Giving Tuesday began in 2012 as a response to the consumerism of Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Today, it’s a global movement encouraging people to give back through donations, volunteer work, and acts of kindness. Local nonprofits say the need is greater than ever, with rising costs of living and food insecurity affecting thousands in Champaign County.
How to Help
Residents can donate online, drop off food or clothing, or volunteer their time. Even small contributions make a big impact. For a full list of local resources, visit GivingTuesday.org.
If you know of an organization that is lending a hand in the community this holiday season, please reach out to editor@chambanatoday.com and let us know about it!