CHICAGO — Language barriers often pose a significant challenge for food pantries striving to serve diverse client base. However, one food pantry in the Chicago area is leveraging two innovative technologies to assist non-English speakers, whether they access the pantry in person or online.

The West Suburban Community Pantry in Woodridge, Ill., has implemented a tablet-based system from TranslateLive to facilitate real-time in-person conversations with non-English speakers. Additionally, the pantry supports online clients with software from PantrySoft, which offers translation capabilities for over 30 languages.

These dual technologies are enhancing the pantry’s ability to assist the 42% of its clients who do not speak English. Last year, the pantry identified approximately 17 different languages spoken among its customers. The technologies are already encouraging non-English speakers to more actively engage with the pantry.

Expanding access to the emergency food network is a top priority for hunger relief providers. To achieve this, food banks and pantries are extending their operating hours, offering culturally appropriate food, and addressing language barriers as part of their efforts.

Initially, West Suburban Community Pantry attempted to bridge the language gap by translating signage, forms, and materials into the most commonly spoken languages. However, an authentic exchange remained elusive. The breakthrough came when staff members discovered the Instant Language Assistant (ILA), a real-time translation device comprising two tablets equipped with artificial intelligence. Unlike other translation software, ILA enables natural conversations between individuals who speak different primary languages.

ILA allows clients to select their language on one tablet, initiating real-time communication with the other person. They can speak, spell words aloud, or type sentences using the onscreen keyboard for immediate translation. The device supports up to 120 languages, including those most commonly spoken by the pantry’s clients: English, Spanish, Arabic, and Ukrainian.

Pantry staff members are utilizing ILA to welcome clients, assist with check-in and registration, and build relationships. This has enabled them to greet people formally and engage in real-time conversations. ILA also helps connect clients to other services provided by the pantry, addressing various barriers affecting their quality of life beyond food.

Online ordering clients of the pantry are benefiting from translation capabilities offered by PantrySoft, a provider of pantry management software. Approximately one-third of the pantry’s customers order online instead of visiting in person. PantrySoft offers a straightforward online shopping experience with built-in support for more than 30 languages. Clients can select their preferred language from a drop-down menu, instantly translating the entire website.

Since transitioning to this platform, the pantry has witnessed a 35% growth in online customers who do not speak English. PantrySoft not only provides language support but also allows the pantry to track food choices by demographic, enabling better inventory adjustments to meet cultural preferences.

ILA costs $2,500 for two tablet-like devices, with an additional $100-per-year subscription fee for translation support. PantrySoft required an initial investment of approximately $5,000, with pricing varying based on the number of people served by an organization.

Suzanne Armato, CEO of West Suburban Community Pantry, views these language tools as part of a broader community-driven strategy to combat hunger. The pantry operates as a free grocery store, and its online ordering platform enables customers to collect their food just 30 minutes after placing an order.

Additionally, the pantry collaborates with other organizations, including schools and a local hospital. Through its partnership with the hospital, doctors identify patients experiencing food insecurity, automatically enrolling them in an online order program. The pantry then delivers food to their homes.

Since implementing ILA and PantrySoft, the pantry has seen an increase in non-English-speaking clients, making the investment in these technologies highly valuable.

Armato stated, “Our goal is to end hunger in that community. So if this is a way that we can really get to that, then we’re happy to be providing that opportunity.