Delta Dental of Illinois has strengthened its partnership with the Northern Illinois Food Bank to support children facing food insecurity. On April 3, more than a dozen Delta Dental employees volunteered at the Food Bank’s West Suburban Center in Geneva, helping to pack thousands of oral health kits for the Backpack Program. This weekend nutrition initiative provides children with food and essential hygiene supplies.
Each oral health kit, donated by Delta Dental, contains a toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, and an easy-to-understand guide on maintaining good oral hygiene. The volunteer effort complements a $15,000 grant awarded by the Delta Dental of Illinois Foundation in February to support the Backpack Program. The grant funds help supply nutritious, shelf-stable food—about 13 pounds per backpack—that children can take home for the weekend.
“At Delta Dental, we’re committed to building healthy communities,” said Lynn, director of human resources. “Every employee receives eight hours of paid volunteer time annually, and we use it to connect with organizations like Northern Illinois Food Bank. It’s powerful to see the difference we can make together.”
Employees described the experience as meaningful and eye-opening. Krystal, a contract analyst, said, “You just never know when you might be the one facing food insecurity. Helping families in need is what drives me to give back.” Auditor Crystal was moved by a video about a family benefiting from the program, calling it “incredible” and saying, “It really does take a village.”
Chris Easley, development officer at Northern Illinois Food Bank, praised the partnership: “Thanks to partners like Delta Dental of Illinois, we can continue to nourish children and families while promoting overall well-being through essential resources like food and oral health care. Together, we are building a stronger, healthier future for our neighbors.”
