Located in Woodridge, IL, the West Suburban Community Pantry (WSCP) is a client-choice food pantry that replicates a grocery store experience for clients with both in-person shopping, and an online ordering/pick up option. With inefficient layouts, no private waiting areas, and insufficient staff space in their two storefront spaces, the organization had no room to grow, prompting the decision to renovate.
The humble renovation focused on reorienting program elements to improve efficiency, flow, and client experience. In the main service space, a bright, welcoming waiting area is created with built-in millwork benches, a new greeter desk, clear signage, and colorful graphics, along with three intake rooms for staff to meet privately with clients.
The existing warehouse is expanded and reorganized to allow even more donations and clients to be served in various ways. This remodel also allowed West Suburban to offer their clients the option of an online shopping model which they expanded right before the pandemic in 2020. In the new administrative offices, spaces are shuffled to create three private offices, an open workspace, and a conference room that allows for staff and volunteer trainings to take place on site.
Now, with its new facelift, WSCP staff and volunteers can greet, serve, and help even more clients assemble their food selections in an inviting and uplifting space.
Photography: Tara White, Tara White Photo