Catholic Charities' Holy Cross IHM Food Pantry was honored as one of seven pantries noted for quality performance by The Greater Chicago Food Depository and it is Pantry University program The award program, now in its third year, recognizes standards of excellence among emergency food providers in the community. Quality performance Award were given to the standout food pantries at the Food Depository's annual conference for its member soup kitchens, food pantries and shelters on Octuber 19.

To receive the award, the food pantries underwent a rigorous evaluation process. Standards for excellence armong food pantries were developed and validated for the award with the help of 30 expert pantry program operators. A team of judges evaluated food pantries based on the established standards, conducted site visits and scored the applicants.

 Five key areas for judging included categories for, financial processes, staff and volunteers, clients and community. " These pantries are being honored for their dedication to the people and communities the serve", said DonElla Bradford, director of Pantry University. "The Food Depository could not do what it does without its menber agencies. Those being recognized strive for excellence in everything they do to serve people in need"