December 15, 2022 – A friendly competition among Ameren Illinois workers turned into much-needed replenishment of supplies for food pantries in central and southern Illinois, including the Northeast Community Fund in Decatur.
Ameren Illinois co-workers in 40 locations collected more than 21,000 pounds of food and Ameren Illinois donated $10,000 to help food pantries during this busy time.
Co-workers hand-delivered the good tidings to a total of 46 food pantries right before Thanksgiving. In addition, 10 Ameren Illinois office locations that collected the most food received $1,000 each to award to pantries in their areas.
“Our co-workers at the Decatur Meter Shop raised 1,051 pounds of food for the Northeast Community Fund, they are very generous each year and enjoy the competition,” said Dawn Jones, Administrative Clerk. “One of our goals is to keep the food local, so we’re benefitting the pantries and local food establishments.”
More than 1 million people in Illinois suffer from food insecurity, with the young and elderly affected most. This is the second year for the competition with hope to continue to grow it in the future. A goal of the program to keep the food local, so Ameren Illinois co-workers can give back to the places they call home.
“Helping the food pantries who serve individuals and families in the communities where we live and work means a lot to our co-workers,” said Craig Gilson, Vice President of Electric Operations and Distribution. “We know times are difficult for many families right now and we’re glad we can help.”
