A community-run initiative built on respect, compassion, and quiet action.
For over 15 years, Dining With Dignity has been quietly serving families in the Chicago and Skokie community. What started as a simple effort to redistribute leftover food from community events has grown into a sustainable operation supporting more than 50 families regularly.
The initiative has always been led by Mr. Babendir, who saw a need in the community and chose to act with humility and respect. Rather than creating bureaucracy or barriers, the focus has remained on direct, dignified assistance—no applications, no forms, no judgment.
Recently, a small group formed to add structure and transparency, ensuring this vital work can continue and grow while preserving its heart and values.
Food insecurity doesn't always look the way people expect. Many of the families we serve live nearby, work hard, and appear self-sufficient. But behind closed doors, they're struggling—and they're often too proud or ashamed to ask for help.
We believe no one should have to sacrifice their dignity to feed their family.
That's why our approach is different. There are no applications. No income verification. No public acknowledgment of donors. Just quiet, respectful support delivered with care.
We serve families in the Chicago and Skokie area who are experiencing food insecurity. Many are working families facing temporary hardship. Others are elderly community members living on fixed incomes. Some are new immigrants still finding their footing.
What they all have in common is this: they're our neighbors, and they deserve support without shame.
We don't publicize who receives help. Deliveries are discreet. Privacy is paramount.
No one is required to give. Participation—whether as a donor or recipient—is always invitational.
Donors are not elevated. Recipients are not diminished. Everyone participates with dignity.
This initiative belongs to the community. It's sustained by neighbors helping neighbors.
This isn't a top-down charity. It's a grassroots effort that belongs to everyone who participates. Our goal is to create sustainable structure—transparent finances, reliable operations, and clear communication—without losing the personal touch that makes this work meaningful.
We're building something that can last, scale responsibly, and adapt to the community's needs while always keeping dignity at the center.