Carbondale Launches 'Share the Love' Food Drive

City-wide effort supports local food pantries and soup kitchens through February.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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The City of Carbondale is hosting a 'Share the Love, City-Wide Food Drive' from February 9-28 to collect non-perishable food donations for The Good Samaritan House Food Pantry, Bethel AME Feed My Sheep Soup Kitchen, and the SIU Food Pantry. Donation drop-off locations include the Civic Center, Police Department, Fire Departments, Walmart, and Kroger.

Why it matters

Food insecurity is an ongoing issue in many communities, and this drive aims to stock local pantries and kitchens beyond the typical holiday giving season. The mayor hopes the 'Share the Love' theme will encourage residents to donate and support their neighbors in need.

The details

The food drive runs from February 9-28, with donation drop-off sites at the Carbondale Civic Center, Police Department, Fire Departments, Walmart, and Kroger. All non-perishable food items are accepted to benefit The Good Samaritan House Food Pantry, Bethel AME Feed My Sheep Soup Kitchen, and the SIU Food Pantry.

  • The food drive runs from February 9-28, 2026.
  • Donation drop-off sites are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The players

City of Carbondale

The local government of Carbondale, Illinois, organizing the 'Share the Love' food drive.

The Good Samaritan House Food Pantry

A local food pantry in Carbondale that will receive donations from the drive.

Bethel AME Feed My Sheep Soup Kitchen

A local soup kitchen in Carbondale that will receive donations from the drive.

SIU Food Pantry

The food pantry serving Southern Illinois University's Carbondale campus, which will receive donations from the drive.

Mayor Harvey

The mayor of Carbondale who launched the 'Share the Love' food drive to support local food assistance organizations.

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What they’re saying

“I wanted to launch this City-Wide Food Drive during the month of February to supply food beyond the months we traditionally think of. During November-December, there are always food drives around the Holidays, but people are hungry year round. With Valentine's coming up, we think of February as the month of love, and this a great way to show your love for your fellow citizens here in Carbondale.”

— Mayor Harvey (wmclradio.com)

The takeaway

This community-driven food drive demonstrates how local governments can partner with charitable organizations to address food insecurity year-round, not just during the holiday season. By framing the drive around the theme of 'love' in February, the city hopes to inspire residents to donate and support their neighbors in need.