EAU CLAIRE, Wis. (WJMC) — Food banks and pantries are stepping in to meet the needs of local families due to the interruption to SNAP funding for Wisconsin’s FoodShare assistance program.
In Barron County, around 12 percent of the population receives assistance. Feed My People Food Bank, executive Director Padraig Gallagher says that demand is a lot larger than most organizations are able to handle.
“We know that for every pound of food that we get out through our food bank and pantries, FoodShare actually gets out nine pounds of food to those same communities,” Gallagher said. “And any financial support, any willingness of community members to come and volunteer and help, whether here at Feed My People or at your nearest local pantry or other food assistance program, would be wonderful.”
Monetary donations to food banks and pantries often go farther than donating food items, as they can buy them at less than retail prices. Gallagher said they also welcome local food producers who want to sell or donate to the food bank.
To find ways to give to Feed My People Food Bank, go to FMPfoodbank.org.