ABOUT US
Who Are We
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Yes, Together We Can is a nonprofit organization dedicated to combating food insecurity among individuals with chronic health conditions and their caregivers. Based in the Will County–Joliet area, our focus is on food justice and equitable access to healthy, tailored nutrition for those who need it most.
We provide nutritionally tailored meals.
We educate and empower individuals to make healthier food choices.
GOALS &
OBJECTIVES
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Our Population:
Serving Individuals with chronic health conditions and their caregivers.
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Our Mission and Vision
Our Mission
Our mission is to combat food insecurity not only in the greater Joliet area but also in neighboring communities. Through our initiatives, we are committed to promoting food justice and ensuring that everyone has access to fresh, healthy food options. By focusing on community engagement, education, and empowerment, we strive to create a more equitable food system and provide meaningful support to those in need.
Our Vision
Food Justice!
We envision a community where all individuals—especially those impacted by chronic health conditions—have consistent access to fresh, nutritious, and culturally relevant food options.
Our events, known as Complimentary Pop-Up Nutrition Stations, are designed as free, farmers market-style setups. Yes, Together We Can aims to offer nutritional support to individuals and families facing food insecurity while managing a chronic health condition or caring for someone with one. Each participating family will receive educational materials, including recipes, along with groceries to sustain them for approximately 1.5 to 2 weeks.
Will County Food Insecurity
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Prevalence and Impact:
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​​​In 2021, 7.4% of Will County residents (about 50,710 individuals) experienced food insecurity.
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Children were disproportionately affected, with a 10% food insecurity rate, impacting 17,380 children.
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Pandemic Effects:
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Before COVID-19, food insecurity stood at 6.1% (42,120 individuals), but the pandemic caused a significant rise.
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Food pantry demand tripled, with St. John Lutheran Church in Joliet increasing from 150 to 450 families served per month.
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The pandemic exacerbated food insecurity, increasing reliance on food pantries and revealing long-term economic vulnerability.
​To combat these challenges, community efforts should prioritize:
✅ Expanding food assistance programs to meet growing needs.
✅ Building partnerships with local organizations to address root causes and improve resource accessibility.
With 17 million more Americans facing food insecurity due to pandemic-related economic crises, this data underscores the urgent need for sustained and innovative community support.
Meet the YTWC Team
Yes, Together We Can is powered by a passionate team of professionals including; a banker, registered dietitian, social workers, a healthcare professional and community advocates.
United by a shared mission to fight food insecurity, we serve individuals with chronic health conditions and their caregivers in the Will County–Joliet area and neighboring communities. Our diverse backgrounds drive a unique approach to delivering tailored nutrition and support.
