From Teamwork to Table: 1,000 Meals Packed for Local Families in Need

More than 35 employees from UL Research Institutes and UL Standards & Engagement recently came together in Evanston, Illinois, to pack 1,000 shelf-stable lunches for individuals and families experiencing housing insecurity.

The two-day volunteer event, held June 24-25, was organized in collaboration with Connections for the Homeless, a nonprofit that provides emergency shelter, eviction prevention, and permanent housing solutions in the Chicagoland area. The meals — containing items like peanut butter crackers, granola bars, jerky, and juice — were selected for their nutrition, portability, and shelf life.

“Knowing we have a well-stocked supply of lunches for the summer is not something I’ve experienced in my nearly four years here,” said Julie Lanham, director of development operations at Connections. “Your gift ensures we can say ‘yes’ to anyone who comes through our doors.”

The event was timed to address a seasonal drop in donations and volunteer support, which often occurs during the summer months. By coming together to meet this need, ULRI and ULSE employees helped ensure that local residents facing housing insecurity would have access to nutritious meals during a critical time.

This initiative reflects the UL enterprise’s broader mission to advance safety, security, and sustainability—not only through science, but through service.

PUBLISHED