The Greater Chicago Food Depository and Northern Illinois Food Bank are the recipients of a unique donation from Bank of America. The bank will make a $100 donation to fight hunger for every employee in Chicago who receives a COVID-19 vaccine booster shot and notifies the bank before January 31, 2022. “The ongoing pandemic continues to put an increased strain on food security for individuals and families,” shared Rita Cook, president of Bank of America Chicago. “This incentive program is a dual investment in our community and teammates, supporting the overall health and wellness of the region. The Greater Chicago Food Depository and Northern Illinois Food Bank do an incredible job fighting food insecurity throughout Chicagoland, and we’re committed to supporting their efforts to get food to those in need.”

Nationally, Bank of America is committed to donating up to $10 million to food banks and hunger relief organizations for employees who get booster shots this month or who have already gotten the shot if they register that information with the bank. Bank of America has encouraged staff to get vaccinated and boosted since summer 2021 and has offered incentives such as paid time-off and $500 credits towards health benefit premiums. This newest incentive is unique to support the overall health of the community while also making sure local food banks are adequately resourced. “In Chicago and across the nation, the pandemic has contributed to a historic hunger crisis,” said Kate Maehr, executive director and CEO of the Greater Chicago Food Depository. “Thanks to the generosity of supporters like Bank of America, we’ve been able to meet the rising demand for food. We are grateful for this gift and applaud Bank of America for giving their workforce additional incentive to receive vaccine boosters.”