State to fund food bank technology upgrade

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Illinois is giving nearly $4.5 million to eight food banks across the state to bring their technology up to speed.

Governor Pat Quinn says the money comes from a capital fund and will be used to buy software and computer equipment for food banks around Chicago, Peoria and Rockford.

The food banks will also put in money for training on new digital record keeping.

The idea is to reduce paper and improve efficiency.

"It's important that we make sure that our food pantries and our food banks that supply those pantries are 21st century ready," Quinn said.

Governor Quinn's office says those food banks help nearly two million people across the state.