Giving back to the community is woven into the fabric of the Gonnella Baking Company. Since 1886, the family owned business has been a staple in Chicagoland homes, providing fresh bread…and so much more. As far back as the 1930s, Gonnella's leadership was fostering good will in the neighborhood. During the Great Depression, the bakery opened its ovens once a week so local residents could come in and bake their own bread—allowing people to feed themselves and their families during a time when many struggled to do so.
Today, that tradition continues as Gonnella focuses its philanthropic efforts on bringing sustenance to those in need. Nearly every week for decades, Gonnella has donated breads, buns and rolls to a myriad of food pantries, helping these organizations supply nutritious meals for thousands of hungry children and adults each day. Our company contributes financially to Food For Friends and employees frequently volunteer there, too. The bakery's charitable reach extends to the elderly, as well, thanks to its longstanding involvement with the Little Sisters of the Poor.
Providing nourishment for families facing hunger insecurity is just one of the many ways Gonnella has made an impact in Chicgoland and beyond. The company has come to the aid of Illinois families devastated by natural disasters, delivering bread to towns ravaged by tornadoes so residents could enjoy hearty meals during cleanup efforts. In Hazleton, Pennsylvania, bakery employees helped remodel the former Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church into a free, mobile healthcare clinic as part of Greater Hazleton's United Way "A Day of Caring."
Volunteering is an integral part of Gonnella's culture…and has been for many years. Coming together for a cause allows employees to step outside of their usual environment and connect with each other on a deeper level while performing meaningful work for those less fortunate.
In fact, the company has been a long-time champion of the Easter Seals, Misericordia, and Make-A-Wish Foundation. Team members regularly contribute time, energy and resources to assist organizations such as these that support families with special needs children.
As a family owned and operated company, Gonnella is deeply committed to family values and community involvement. For four generations, the Gonnella and Marcucci families have prided themselves on being good neighbors and giving back to the community. These ideals remain the focus of Gonnella today.