The Chicago Community Trust announced it surpassed a $1-million target to provide funds for shelters and pantries that have been overwhelmed by soaring demand.

In an initiative launched late last year, the community foundation raised $1.3 million for its Unity Challenge fund for local charities.

In addition, it contributed $2 to the fund for every $1 in donations, bringing the total fund to almost $4 million. A $500,000 donation from the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation helped the Trust exceed its initial goal to raise $1 million for the fund.

Scott Brown and Tom Burns of the Greater Dover Advisory Board and Hugh Leahy of the Delaware Community Foundation presented a grant $2,183 to Whatcoat Social Service Agency - WSSA Food Pantry.

Whatcoat Social Service Agency - WSSA Food Pantry is a program that was established to meet the need of those low income families who are going through a crisis such as job loss, illness, or domestic issues. Some need a chance to apply for food stamps while others need to supplement their food budget. Our objective is to keep those who come to us from being hungry.