ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, Ill. (WGN) — After 12 years of serving families out of a townhome garage in Vernon Hills, Sue’s Pantry reopened Friday in Arlington Heights following a forced relocation.
Complaints from neighbors led to the pantry’s closure in its original location. For founder Saroj Gandhi, who goes by Sue, the move was painful but ultimately a blessing.
“It was very disappointing and truly heartbreaking,” Gandhi said.
Now, Gandhi is looking forward to a fresh start at 5 East College Drive in Arlington Heights.
“It’s perfect because it has everything I was looking for,” she said.
The new space is not only more accessible but also better equipped, with room for grocery trucks to unload donations.
“Here I’m very free and open for people to come and go as they please,” Gandhi said.
Sue’s Pantry is also teaming up with larger organizations such as Community Solutions of Illinois to pick up donated food from grocery stores.
Supporters say Gandhi’s work goes beyond stocking shelves.
“She’s an angel, just an angel,” Shara Fata said. “She’s got shoes, sometimes coats during the winter. She gives kids book bags.”
At times, Gandhi even uses her own money to fill urgent needs.
“A lot of families are staying in extended stay motels because they are being evicted,” Gandhi said.
Her focus often extends to single mothers and children, making sure families have more than just food.
“I wanted there to be an opportunity for single moms to come and get food, diapers, cleaning supplies, feminine products, a lot of things that are not covered by food stamps,” Gandhi said.
For those looking to donate or in need of assistance, the best way to connect with Sue’s Pantry is through its Facebook page.
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