The McHenry County Faith Leaders Collaborative, comprised of 40 faith communities, launched March 3. Its mission: to address food insecurity among residents in McHenry County. The Collaborative will work on such initiatives as stocking food pantries, assisting with feeding programs, and partnering with already established hunger organizations and programs in the region.

The idea of creating the Collaborative came after faith leaders began meeting to discuss issues that have impacted the area. Among the issues, faith leaders shared how individuals and families in their communities were hungry and in need of assistance. They began strategizing on ways they could work together to make a difference.

Ten faith communities joined in writing a memorandum of agreement, describing the cooperative relationship between the congregations wishing to work together on initiatives to assist McHenry county residents facing food insecurity.

“What makes us strong as a faith community is the belief that we are better together, and that when we come together to help those in need get back on their feet, we can make a greater impact on our community,” said the Reverend Catherine Daharsh, Senior Pastor Bethany Lutheran Church, Crystal Lake, Ill. “This is our time; this is our moment to roll up our sleeves and work at addressing food insecurity and making a positive impact on the lives of those living in McHenry County.”