LETTER: Food crisis feared, pantries desperate for donations now

To Ozaukee Press:

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Benefits (SNAP) benefits—known as FoodShare in Wisconsin—are set to run out on Nov. 1. More than 3,000 Ozaukee County residents rely on FoodShare and could soon face going without food until the federal government shutdown ends.

This is a call to action: Please support our local food pantries during this critical time. If benefits lapse, pantries will see a surge in demand that could quickly empty their shelves.

Cash donations make the biggest impact, as pantries can purchase food at far lower costs than individuals can. Even small contributions add up. If you prefer to give food, check each pantry’s website for current needs. 

In addition to canned vegetables, easy-to-prepare meals like chili or canned pasta are especially helpful. Paper goods and dairy products such as milk and cheese are also appreciated.

You never know who may be in need—a neighbor, a fellow parishioner or a classmate of your child. Many families are just one paycheck away from hardship.

Now is the time for our community to come together. Any amount of support will make a real difference.

Kirsten Coenen

Board president 

Ozaukee Food Alliance

Saukville

Editor’s note: Food pantries serving Ozaukee County are Ozaukee Food Alliance, The Food Pantry Inc. and Family Sharing. Information on donations can be found at these websites: ozaukeefood alliance.org; the food pantryinc.com; familysharingozaukee.org.