Frequently Asked Questions

There are several convenient options for getting to the venue at 7059 S South Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60649:

Shuttle Service:
Complimentary shuttles will begin pick-ups at the Hilton Garden Inn Chicago McCormick Place at 7:00 AM, continue on to the SOPHY Hotel to collect guests, and then head to South Shore. This loop will run continuously, with the final pick-up at approximately 8:30 AM* from Hilton Garden Inn Chicago McCormick Place, followed by a final pick-up from the SOPHY. Staying elsewhere? You’re welcome to meet the shuttle at either hotel.

*Due to traffic, times may vary.

Driving & Parking:

Metered parking is available on-site. The full-day rate is $23.39.

Public Transit:
Chicago’s public transit options include the CTA (trains and buses) and Metra (commuter rail). 

Download the Ventra App to:

• Buy and manage CTA and Metra tickets

• Add unlimited ride passes (1-day, 3-day, or 7-day options)

• Use tap-to-pay features on buses and trains

• Plan your trip and check real-time arrivals

Rideshare & Taxi:
Uber, Lyft, and taxis can drop off at the venue’s main entrance. Please allow extra time during peak hours and evenings.

There are several convenient options for getting to Hoste at 1857 W 16th St, Chicago, IL 60608:

Shuttle Service:

Complimentary shuttles will begin pick-ups at the SOPHY Hotel at 4:15 PM, continue on to the Hilton Garden Inn Chicago McCormick Place to collect guests, and then head to Hoste. This loop will run continuously, with the final pick-up at approximately 5:20 PM* from the SOPHY, followed by a final pick-up from Hilton Garden Inn Chicago McCormick Place. Last Pick-up from Hoste to return to the hotels is at 7:00 PM*. Staying elsewhere? You’re welcome to meet the shuttle at either hotel.

*Due to traffic, times may vary.

Driving & Parking:
There is limited free street parking available.

Public Transit:
Chicago’s public transit options include the CTA (trains and buses) and Metra (commuter rail). 

Download the Ventra App to:

• Buy and manage CTA and Metra tickets

• Add unlimited ride passes (1-day, 3-day, or 7-day options)

• Use tap-to-pay features on buses and trains

• Plan your trip and check real-time arrivals

Rideshare & Taxi:
Uber, Lyft, and taxis can drop off at the venue’s main entrance. Please allow extra time during peak hours and evenings.

Business casual or comfortable clothing is recommended. The venue is climate-controlled, but we suggest bringing a light layer for cooler rooms.

All meals are curated with local, values-driven vendors aligned with Good Food Purchasing Values. Expect plant-forward menus, responsibly sourced proteins, and Chicago-inspired flavors. Dietary needs shared during registration will be accommodated.

Yes. A private lactation room will be available on the second floor with seating, sanitizing supplies, cubbies, and refrigeration. A virtual sign-up sheet will help reserve time slots. Reach out to the planning team for additional needs.

We do not have a designated private space for attendees to conduct meetings or work calls. We ask that guests remain present during the event and refrain from taking outside work-related calls and meetings.

Phone Calls

Quick calls may be taken from the grand foyer at any time.

Quiet Room

Please do not use the Quiet Room for calls or meetings. This space is reserved exclusively for meditating, praying, and decompressing.

All sessions and events are listed in Central Time (CT), UTC-6.

Yes. The reception on Wednesday, Oct 8, 5:00–7:00 PM at Hoste has limited capacity. Please RSVP in advance to secure your spot.

Yes, public Wi-Fi will be available at the venue. 

(Network details will be provided on-site at check-in)

No, there will not be designated charging stations. If you need to charge your phone during the event, please see the event staff at the check-in desk.

Self-service coat racks will be available on-site.

We’ll have an official event photographer and videographer. We encourage you to stay engaged during sessions rather than using your phone. Outside of sessions, feel free to take photos and videos! You can also upload and share them using the QR code on the back of your event badge.

Visit our Attendee Gallery to connect with others who opted in during registration.

The venue is fully ADA accessible. Additional accommodations include:

Lactation Room (private space with seating, cubbies, sanitizing supplies, and refrigeration)

Interpretation Services (advance request required)

Quiet Room (for meditation, prayer, and decompression only)

All genders restrooms available on-site

If you have specific needs, contact events@goodfoodpurchasing.org.

The Power of Procurement team has compiled some general guidance on safety and security related to traveling (domestically and/or internationally) and navigating Chicago while attending the summit. In light of the recent news regarding the National Guard and ICE activity, our team has collected a short list of resources to help keep you informed.

RESOURCES FOR NAVIGATING ICE AND/OR NATIONAL GUARD DEPLOYMENT:

• Chicago Updates by Muslims for Just Futures (last updated 9/3/25)

• Hands Off Chicago for updates from grassroots coalitions organizing together

• Know Your Rights

  • City of Chicago by Office of Immigrant, Migrant, and Refugee Rights (IMRR)

  • General Know Your Rights by ACLU of Illinois

• Rapid Response Networks of Chicago

  • Text alerts from ICIRR & OCAD about ICE whereabouts

• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)

  • NAMI Helpline: (833) 626-4244

RESOURCES FOR DOMESTIC AND INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL

We have also compiled extensive resources that may be helpful for domestic or international travelers. If you have concerns and would like more detailed information to prepare for your summit travel, please contact events@goodfoodpurchasing.org.

DOCUMENTATION

• Carry government-issued photo identification (driver's license, state ID, or passport)

• Keep digital and physical copies of important documents stored separately

• Ensure your ID is current and not expired

• Consider carrying a backup form of identification

SITUATIONAL AWARENESS

• Stay alert to your surroundings, especially in crowded areas

• Trust your instincts about uncomfortable situations

• If you feel vulnerable, we encourage you to stay in groups and minimize sightseeing in popular tourism areas.

STAY CONNECTED

• Keep phone charged with portable battery backup

• Establish an emergency contact team and share your travel plans (work/personal)

  • Share your travel dates/times

  • Set up a monitoring plan - when to check in; what do if you miss your check-in point

• Share itinerary with trusted emergency contacts

• Check in regularly with family/colleagues

• Save local emergency numbers in your phone

• Use the buddy system, try to avoid traveling alone, or stay connected to your network

Please don’t hesitate to reach out with questions or concerns. We look forward to seeing you soon!

(The attached general guidance is not intended to provide and cannot be relied upon as legal advice)