In recognition of February being National Canned Food Month, HSHS Home Care is holding its annual “Cram the Car” food drive this month for the First United Methodist Church food pantry to help those struggling with food insecurity. Community members are invited to “cram” a Home Care car by donating non-perishable items. On Wednesday, Feb. 28 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., a HSHS Home Care branded car will be parked outside HSHS Good Shepherd Hospital’s patient entrance on the west side of the hospital accepting donations of items or monetary contributions.

Valerie Engelbart, volunteer/bereavement services supervisor for HSHS Home Care, says that the HSHS Mission is to reveal Christ’s healing love for all people through the health care ministry.  She says that the hospital is privileged that patient's families trust them with their care and the care of their loved ones. 

Some non-perishable items that the food pantry could use are boxed meals, pancake mix and syrup, jelly, canned fruit, pasta sauce, cereal, granola, sugar-free canned fruit, low-salt canned vegetables, large boxes of oatmeal, as well as any other non-perishable items. When donating, please check the expiration date of items and avoid donating expired goods.

For more information about the drive, contact Valerie Engelbart, volunteer/bereavement services supervisor for HSHS Home Care, at 217-685-0702 or email Valerie.Engelbart@hshs.org. To find out more about services offered by HSHS Home Care, visit