Faith In Humanity Restored: After Theft, Food Pantry Flooded With Donations

IRVING PARK — Last week's shocking theft of toiletry items from the Irving Park Food Pantry has a happy ending.

Though the thief (or thieves) remains at large, the pantry is now awash in donations that have not only replaced what was stolen but have helped build an inventory of personal care items that the pantry has always found difficult to keep in stock.

The pantry's plight "elicited an amazing response, one that I didn't expect," said John Psiharis, the pantry's executive director.

After learning about the break-in at the pantry, 3801 N. Keeler Ave., longtime friends of the organization along with complete strangers dropped off toothpaste, soap, toilet paper and other items.

Flight attendants came through with two large bags of toiletries collected during their travels. Paper products giant Kimberly-Clark sent a small truckload of facial tissue, wipes, toilet paper and paper towels.

On Wednesday morning, George Katsikas, vice president of Berman Mid City Nissan, presented the pantry with a $1,000 check on behalf of the Irving Park-based dealership to be used to purchase personal care items.

Most of the pantry's monetary donations are earmarked for food, which made the Berman contribution even more significant.

"No one thinks to do toiletry drives — we go through them faster than we realize," said Craig Shutt, a volunteer who manages communications for the pantry.

Something like plain white crew socks are highly coveted by clients, particularly with the onset of cooler weather.

"A pair of socks can brighten a day," Shutt said.

For Katsikas, a tour of the pantry's operation was an eye-opener.

"I'm learning a lot today," he said, and pledged to partner with the pantry more in the future.

The Irving Park Food Pantry was established more than 30 years ago and serves more than 500 households or approximately 1,400 individuals each month, all of whom live within the 60641 or 60618 ZIP codes, according to Shutt.

Food is distributed every Wednesday morning and the second Tuesday of every month during evening hours. There are no income requirements to receive assistance.

"If you come into the pantry and request food, we figure you need it," said Shutt.

A client services coordinator is on hand to assist individuals with employment or housing needs, as well.

"We provide the support and foundation to help people get back on track," Shutt said.

For Zhuljeta Shero, an Albanian immigrant, the pantry has been a lifesaver.

Shero is currently looking for work — and followed up on a job opening she saw posted at the pantry while waiting for her food — but meanwhile has three children and two parents to feed.

"It wasn't going to be good at all," she said.

She said she especially appreciates the pantry's selection of fresh vegetables and frequently picks up toothpaste and shampoo, which are otherwise too expensive.

"It was disappointing," Shero said of the theft. "Thanks to a lot of people who gave donations."

Donations can be dropped off at 3801 N. Keeler Ave. (enter on Grace Street), where the pantry maintains collection bins during regular weekday business hours.

Toilet paper, feminine products, baby diapers and laundry detergent are among the most needed items.

The pantry is also in the midst of its annual coat drive and will accept donations of new or gently used coats, scarves, gloves, mittens and hats throughout the month of October. Last year, the pantry provided coats to more than 400 needy individuals, Psiharis said.

^{George Katsikas, vice president of Berman Mid City Nissan, presented the pantry with a $1,000 check on behalf of the Irving Park-based dealership. [All photos DNAinfo/Patty Wetli]}

^{Pantry volunteer Craig Shutt, with a truckload of paper products donated by Kimberly-Clark.}

^{The food pantry is a hub of activity, and volunteers, during Wednesday's weekly distribution.}

^{A busted lock is evidence of the recent break-in at the food pantry. Instead of making off with canned goods, the thief (or thieves) swiped the pantry's entire stock of toiletries.}

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