If you’re a senior in Illinois, you need to know about Mather! This incredible organization is helping seniors like Peggy connect with free meals, pet food, crafting kits and so much more – and it’s all absolutely free!
Yesterday, Peggy emailed our tip line and told us, “I don’t know if you’re aware of a program called Mather. It is for Illinois residents that are 55+. It is free. I have received 6 free meal deliveries from Meez Meals, free 14lb bags of dog food from Chewy (1 every month for three months), craft kits and hydroponic garden kit (machine, seeds and all). They do not ask for income or any type of payment. Just your address. They have so many programs to offer. I really enjoyed what I have received.”
This is an amazing resource for low income seniors in Illinois, so of course we had to look into it!
Who They Help
You may be eligible to participate in Mather’s programs and services if you are:
- Age 55+
- Living in Illinois (some of their programs are limited to certain Chicago zip codes, but others are available state-wide. Their Virtual Programs even accept out-of-state seniors).
What They Offer
Mather offers a variety of community programs that can help seniors access resources and stay connected to their community, including:
GIT Garden Kits: Mather will send you a personal hydroponic garden with five seed packets, a supply list and instructions for getting started. They also have a dedicated Facebook group for those who participate. Request one on their website.
Cook & Connect: You may be able to get FREE meal kits delivered from Meez Meals if you live in certain Chicago zip codes. These meals provide high-quality, non-processed ingredients. If you’re eligible, you can get new kits every week for six weeks. Each kit contains four servings, which means you could get 24 meals for free. See if your zip code is eligible.
Mather Market Basket: This new program delivers fresh produce, protein and grains right to your door between January and June 2026. You must live in certain Chicago zip codes to participate. Get more details in this Facebook post.
Paw Packs: This program provides monthly pet food deliveries, like Peggy described in her email. They also have an online virtual pet club, too. They do not have a waitlist for this program, so you’ll need to check this page often to see if the form is available.
DIT Art Kits: You can register to receive a Do-It-Together Art Community in a Box. You’ll receive all the materials you need and the step-by-step instructions on how to do it. You need to fill out the form on their website or call them to reserve your kit.
In-Person Events: They have unique opportunities and events throughout the Chicagoland area. These include museum tours, community lunches, walking clubs, yoga classes and more. See the upcoming events list.
Virtual Programs: You can register online for gardening, crafting, fitness and balance, and other special programs. Reserve your spot on their website or call them at (888) 600-2560. This is the only offering that is available to people who live outside of Illinois.
How to Get Help
In order to connect with these programs, you’ll need to use the links above to find the right pages on the Mather website. Some of the programs allow you to sign up by phone, but most of them require you to fill out a specific interest form. The links above can take you directly to the right pages.
Relief Recap
Mather is doing incredible things for seniors in Illinois, especially in the Chicago area. Since 1941, this non-demoninational non-profit organization has been all about helping local seniors find “Ways to Age Well.” Connect with them today to explore all the programs that they have to offer.