EDWARDSVILLE — The St. Louis Area Foodbank will host a large-scale free food distribution on Thursday, Nov. 20, 2025, to assist families affected by the ongoing government shutdown, disruptions to SNAP benefits, and rising inflation. The drive-thru event aims to feed 3,000 households from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Ralph Korte Stadium parking lot on the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville campus.
Attendees will receive a variety of fresh produce, dairy, protein, and shelf-stable pantry items. The distribution is open to the public on a first-come, first-served basis, with no income verification or identification required.
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Tens of thousands of families across the bi-state region are struggling amid the current economic challenges, according to Meredith Knopp, president and CEO of the St. Louis Area Foodbank.
“Our neighbors are facing multiple crises right now. High inflation, the uncertainty of a government shutdown, and disruptions to SNAP benefits mean many households are unsure where their next meal is coming from,” Knopp said.
She added that the foodbank is mobilizing its largest-scale effort to date to help those in need. “We are mobilizing our largest-scale effort ever to ensure 3,000 households don't have to choose between paying for rent, medication, or food on their table. The need is immediate, and we are stepping up to fill the gap.”
Volunteers and staff will distribute food directly to vehicles, with visuals expected to include long lines of cars and pallets loaded with groceries. The event aims to provide immediate relief to children, seniors, and hardworking families impacted by the crisis.
For more information, contact Ericka Kinkead at ekinkead@stlfoodbank.org or 314-227-3728.
