FAQs
Donor FAQs
Do you accept Electronics?
We do not accept Electronics.
Do you accept small kitchen appliances?
We accept and encourage small kitchen appliance donations such as, but not limited to; blenders, microwaves, and toasters.
Do you accept Furniture?
We do not accept furniture however we provide furniture referrals every Wednesday morning from 9-11:30am. We defer people to Central Illinois Christians in Mission, who can be reached by calling: 217-422-4246. They will pick up furniture for a small donation.
Do you make house calls to pick up donations? Where can I donate my stuff?
Unfortunately, we are unable to pick up donations however we do have an easily accessible drive up on the south side of our building with signs in our parking lot guiding you to the correct spot.
What should I bring my donations in?
Plastic bags and cardboard boxes are prefered, but plastic storage totes also work. If you do bring in your donations in a plastic tote and would like it back, we are happy to empty them on-site so that you are able to leave with it.
Do you like to receive holiday/home decoration donations?
No, we prefer that you donate decor items to area non-profit resale shops.
Do you want toys?
Yes, toys and children's books are great for us to be able to stock in our clothing and housewares room.
List of Items we do not/ cannot accept:
Medical equipment (wheelchairs, CPAP machines, handicap accessible mobility items)
Prescription medications
Furniture
Household decor
Electronics
Mattresses or Boxsprings
Large desks
How do I monetarily donate monthly?Unfortunately, we do not have an automatic process that allows you to donate the same amount monthly. We ask that you please go our Donate Page and make donations there each month or set up a monthly check to be sent out with your bank to our address.
How do I donate directly to a particular program and not just the facility in general?
In the memo line, please write which department or purpose you would like the check to benefit. If the memo line does not offer adequate space, feel free to attatch a note with your check when you mail it to us.
Are monetary gifts tax-deductible?
Yes. We are a 501c3 and you will receive a letter in the mail from us upon receiving your donation that can be used for tax purposes.
Are clothing/houseware donations tax-deductible?
Yes, we will provide a receipt upon receiving your donation that can be used for tax purposes. You will put on your receipt what you believe the value of your donations is worth.
What are you in the greatest need of?
Prayer, we are a Christian mission and we need God's help always to accomplish our ongoing mission.
What are your consistent needs?
Monetary donations allow us to purchase food at the Central Illinois Foodbank for 19 cents a pound.
What should I wear to volunteer?
What you wear should be extremely casual. All that we ask is that you wear closed-toed shoes and nothing inappropriate on your clothing.
Do you want one time volunteers or are you looking for frequent volunteers?
Either or, we encourage you to come and try volunteering at our facility at least once and then decide afterwards the frequency of your volunteering.
How is the best way to get ahold of Northeast about a more specific question, special project, or directed donation?
Please see our Menu, select the About Us folder and click on the Staff Page for the emails of Dept. Chairs to find the appropriate person to direct your question to.
Client FAQs
Is financial assistance available?
Yes, please click on our Menu dropdown at the top left of your screen, select Services, and click on whichever service you'd like to learn more about.
If two people live together in the same residence can we both apply for food?
Food distribution is based on household size, so each box will adequately fit your needs.
Can special food type requests be made?
We will do our best to accommodate food allergies however we keep a limited supply of food for people with special dietary needs.
What food is provided?
We make it a priority to provide fresh dairy, eggs, meats, produce, and bread accompanied by caned goods and some type of dessert each time you receive a box.
How often can you receive food?
Currently, our maximum is twice a month through means of drive-through M-T-TH-F during COVID-19.
Do I need to bring things like boxes to transport my food?
Boxes are provided however, we encourage clients to bring their own tote, box or laundry basket with them to be environmentally friendly.
What does a visit to the Pantry look like?
Upon coming through our front doors, you will see a receptionist in our lobby that will give you a number. Once your number is displayed on the LCD on the wall of the Lobby, you may proceed forward to the food pantry. There, you will be asked to provide some information. Once that is taken care of, you will enter a food line where you will have the opportunity to choose the foods that are most appealing to your household.
Do you provide a delivery service?
We do offer a mobile food pantry for seniors and the disabled who lack transportation. Contact Macon County Health Department’s Starting Point Program for a referral. More information can be found in our blog, which can be found in our menu at the top left corner of your screen.
Is there anything available for babies?We offer, with a referral; formula, diapers, and free baby clothes.
How can I receive clothing?
Currently, by appointment (during COVID-19). Make an appointment by calling us at 217-429-5846.
Do you need my identification?
Yes, the government (USDA) requires ID for all recipients of TANF food products. We also want to be able to track the families served through our programs. The use of IDs differs from program to program.
Is my information from my ID kept confidential?
All information is kept confidential.