The Northwest DuPage Walk-In Ministry (NWDWIM) was created from the cooperative social concerns ministries at Resurrection Catholic Community in Wayne and St. Isidore Catholic Church in Bloomingdale. The initial goal was to bring the area’s resources together in a collaborative program which could more efficiently provide emergency services to people living in Bloomingdale, Wayne and Winfield Townships.

This was not a new idea. Representatives of the Glen Ellyn and Elmhurst Walk-in Ministries were invited to share their knowledge of how they coordinate and organize their activities in their mid and eastern DuPage County communities. Drawing from these successful examples, organizers began the work of establishing a united program to serve people in need residing in Northwest DuPage County. Discussions were held with other area churches and organizations. Resources were recruited to assist with filing for incorporation, applying for non-profit status and other legal requirements. From these activities an initial structure was identified, a Board of Directors was recruited and elected and 13 churches entered into a covenant partnership, committing to feed the hungry, provide shelter and satisfy basic needs, give freedom of movement, and feed the spirit.

The first of three sites was opened on May 5, 1999. In the six and one half years since, assistance has been offered through sites housed in churches in Carol Stream, Wayne, and West Chicago. While the majority of food provided through the three food pantries is purchased through the Northern Illinois Food Bank, NWDWIM receives generous ongoing donations from area stores (particularly Dominick’s and Costco), churches, organizations, and individuals which have helped stock the pantries with basic food staples for those who could not otherwise afford to buy them. In addition to food, monetary assistance for housing (rent/mortgage/short-term shelter), utilities, prescription medications and other medical related needs, and transportation is available.

Today a growing number of churches and organizations are making commitments to provide funds, facilities, and/or volunteers for the ever-increasing number of those who are seeking compassionate, effective assistance in the communities we serve.