VPOE and DuPagePads Renew Thanksgiving Drive to Fight Homelessness and Hunger

As Thanksgiving approaches, Villa Park Office Equipment, Inc. (VPOE) and DuPagePads are teaming up once again in a powerful display of compassion and community commitment. Their renewed annual food drive couples VPOE’s logistical resources with DuPagePads mission to provide warmth, nourishment, and hope to individuals and families across DuPage County who are experiencing homelessness and food insecurity.

Now in its 14th year, this initiative reflects a deeper dedication to serving the most vulnerable. In 2024, VPOE’s food drive helped feed hundreds of families and neighbors, resulting in the collection of 3,800 individual donated items along with $5,500 in checks, cash and gift cards to purchase more needed items. As the county’s largest and most inclusive year-round shelter, DuPagePads continues to

“This level of giving is truly remarkable and a testament to the generous spirit of our neighbors and friends,” said Annette Hernandez, Vice President of Sales at VPOE. “Bringing the joy of Thanksgiving to individuals and families in need is such a blessing. We’re honored to utilize our business resources and network in a way that partners successfully with DuPagePads and hungry neighbors in our community to ensure this vital support continues throughout the winter season.”

“Our long-standing partnership with VPOE is more than a tradition … it’s a shared promise to show up for our community, year after year,” said April Redzic, President & CEO at DuPagePads. “During this season of gratitude, the food drive provides nourishment, dignity, and joy for our shelter guests. Every item donated, every meal served, is a message of hope.”

Donations will be accepted through Thursday, November 20, and may be delivered to VPOE’s showroom during regular business hours. Businesses interested in collecting donations at their locations can contact VPOE to have crates delivered and picked up during the first three weeks of November to be included in the drive. Monetary donations can be made by check, payable to DuPagePads, or through the QR code located at the bottom of the campaign flyer.

To learn more about the services of DuPagePads, or to volunteer, visit www.dupagepads.org.