Good morning, Peoria.

Peoria’s Friendship House is preparing for rising food needs as SNAP benefits end November 1 by offering pre-packed food bags with pasta, protein, and fruits.

The food pantry accepts non-perishable food donations and is open Monday—Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Peoria County schools are facing uncertainty as the federal government shutdown continues, and delays may lead to cuts in special education and nutrition programs.

Dr. George McKenna said districts are keeping programs running — awaiting federal guidance to prevent loss of services.

Experts in Illinois advise turning on your heat when indoor temperatures drop to the mid-60s and suggest setting your thermostat to 68—70 degrees while you are awake and lower when you are asleep or away; landlords must keep indoor temperatures at 68 degrees from 6 a.m.—10 p.m. when outside temperatures fall below 55. Energy saving tips include sealing air leaks and using curtains to trap warmth.

With Halloween near, Public Works urged families to avoid trick-or-treat routes in active construction zones because these areas can have trip hazards and loose gravel—workers are updating roads and sidewalks—to keep everyone safe.

The Midwest Food Bank partnered with OSF Healthcare Children’s Hospital to deliver 80 free family food kits this month to help families fight food insecurity in our area; the hospital will also open an on-site food pantry—its next step to support over 14% of locals in need.

This collaboration directly addresses community health issues by providing essential food supplies and planning ongoing support.

Frankenstein at Corn Stock Theatre

7:30 p.m. — Corn Stock Theatre — Tickets available — Experience a captivating performance of the classic tale of Frankenstein.

Halloween Wheel Throwing Party

6:30-8 p.m. — The Clay Den — $45 — Spin spooky magic on the pottery wheel and create your own Halloween-themed masterpiece.

Thanksgiving Turkey Clay Hand-Building Class

1-3 p.m. — The Clay Den — $45.00 – $90.00 — Celebrate the season by sculpting your own clay turkey masterpiece for a unique holiday keepsake.

High Profile Athletes & Midwest Bucks 2026 7v7 Tryouts

5:30-7 p.m. — Peoria Stadium — Free entry — Showcase your skills in a competitive 7v7 football tryout event.

Foster Family Information Session

6:00-7:30 p.m. — Central Illinois Friends Community Center — Free entry — Discover the process of becoming a licensed foster family and support youth in need.

Textured Pumpkin Clay Hand Building Class

4-6 p.m. — The Clay Den — $35 — Get into the fall spirit while hand-building your own unique ceramic pumpkin.

Quad City Storm vs. Peoria Rivermen

7:15-9:15 p.m. — Peoria Civic Center — Enjoy a competitive ice hockey matchup between local favorites.

Spilled Tea Bookmark Crafting

1-2:30 p.m. — Fondulac District Library — Free entry — Create whimsical bookmarks that express your love of reading with a fun spilled tea design.

Fused Glass Ornaments Workshop

1-3:30 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — Varies by ticket — Create a beautiful fused glass Christmas ornament while enjoying a festive atmosphere and refreshments.

Board Game Night

6-9 p.m. — Border Brewing Co. — Free entry — Enjoy a night of social gaming and meet fellow enthusiasts in the community.