Institute of Politics

Join us to explore food insecurity and the rapidly evolving landscape of SNAP and to learn how policy design, philanthropic investment, and community partnerships jointly shape hunger relief in Chicago. We will visit the Greater Chicago Food Depository for a guided tour of its distribution operations and programs that support families facing food insecurity. Participants will also engage in a conversation with scholars and practitioners who analyze the effectiveness of nutrition assistance programs and community-based strategies to reduce hunger. To deepen understanding of implementation and on-the-ground leadership, we'll hear from Depository leaders such as Kate Maehr, CEO of the Greater Chicago Food Depository. This event will bring together academic research and public-interest work, offering a pathway to reflect on the future of nutrition assistance and food access during a time of significant change to SNAP. Meet at IOP House at 9 AM on January 30. Food and transportation provided.