The West Suburban Community Pantry Board of Directors has announced the appointment of Suzanne Armato as Chief Executive Officer.
Armato has served as Executive Director of the Cancer Support Center for the Chicago South Suburbs for the past nine years. She will join the Pantry in her new role on October 1st.
Armato brings 30 years of nonprofit leadership with strong skills in team building, fundraising and financial management, according to a press release. Armato holds a bachelor’s degree in economics with a concentration in public policy and sociology from the University of Chicago and a master of arts degree in public policy from the School of Social Service Administration at the University of Chicago. She lives in Downers Grove and has volunteered with her family at the West Suburban Community Pantry for 20 years.
“We were so touched by how critical the need for food is and the many ways West Suburban Community Pantry could help,” Armato said in the release. “Community means everything to us, and nutrition is critical to the mental and physical health, education and employment of the community. Lack of food impairs the ability to learn, work and function. We must actively address food shortages if our community is to thrive.”
Armato said when she was a child, her family occasionally had to rely on food supplies.
“There were times when we kids gave up free school lunches because we didn’t want to be perceived as different,” Armato said. “So I personally know how important it is to offer dignity and respect along with nutritious food. What impresses me about the WSCP is their holistic approach. They provide food and work with local resources to provide support services that address the underlying causes of food deprivation. This comprehensive approach can make a lasting difference.”
“We are extremely excited to add Sue to the pantry at this critical time in our history. After a long search, the board was able to find someone who shares our passion for making a positive impact on those around us,” said CEO Kevin Delano in the press release. “We are confident that she will successfully build on our strong history of service to our community as we continue to address the economic and public health challenges that affect us all.”
Founded in 1970, the West Suburban Community Pantry provides food and resources to people suffering from hunger, opens access to nutritious meals and inspires hope for tomorrow. With 50 years of community roots, The Pantry offers a personal pantry in Woodridge, online Virtual Food Pantry ordering with Door Dash delivery option, and senior home delivery to homes in DuPage County, Bolingbrook and Romeoville. The Pantry also offers various child feeding programs during the school year and summer months.
Support services connect families with financial assistance and free workshops. Thanks to the support of individuals, companies and organizations, the WSCP is getting closer to the vision of a community without hunger every day, according to the press release.
Visit www.wscpantry.org to learn more.
