Champaign-Urbana, Ill. (Chambana Today) — The United Way of Champaign County has raised more than $46,000 to help local food pantries and soup kitchens continue feeding families in need — surpassing its original goal and uniting community members around a growing cause.

Of that total, $7,000 is going to the Daily Bread Soup Kitchen, where volunteers say the need for hot meals has surged in recent months. The Daily Bread Soup Kitchen serves a hot meal every day and provides sack lunches for those who need food later in the day.

United Way’s effort reflects a broader push across Champaign County to strengthen food security as local families face higher costs and reduced benefits.