Feeding Wisconsin

We thank Representative Tony Kurtz for spending time listening to leaders from food banks and food pantries on the importance of ensuring those who are experiencing food insecurity in his district have access to the healthy food they deserve.

We want to thank Senator Howard Marklein and Wisconsin State Representative Travis Tranel for stopping by the Couleecap, Inc. Food Pantry in Prairie du Chien to learn more about food insecurity in our community. Jann Sturmer, Program Coordinator, shared that most of the pantry's guests are hardworking individuals, seniors, and children who are in need of food.

Feeding all kids boosts Wisconsin’s workforce, supports local farmers, and strengthens our food economies! We’re excited that Healthy School Meals for All (LRB-1300) is part of the recent Lowering Costs, Improving Lives bill package. This bill ensures schools that participate in the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs provide every student with free, nutritious meals that meet federal standards. It’s a win for kids, families, and our local communities!

Exciting news! Governor Evers recently announced that he'll be hosting budget listening sessions in cities across Wisconsin over the next few weeks. This is a great chance to inform the Governor and his staff on how food security is impacting your communities, resources needed to sustain our work and the importance of a state investment to ensure our more food-secure Wisconsin. Every voice makes a difference! Wednesday 12/4 - LaCrosse 5:30pm-7:00pm (Northside Elementary School, 1611 Kane St, La Crosse) Register here: https://lnkd.in/guGZXjqs Tuesday 12/10 - Milwaukee 5:30pm-7:00pm (ThriveOn King, 2153 N Doctor M.L.K. Jr Dr, Milwaukee) Register here: https://lnkd.in/ggHeJ43R Thursday 12/12 - Ashland 5:30pm-7:00pm (Ashland High School, 1900 Beaser Ave, Ashland) Register here: https://lnkd.in/grwAeb9M Monday 12/16 - VIRTUAL 4:00pm-5:30pm Register here: https://lnkd.in/g9tbYdXM

Hear from Jackie, our Executive Director, about Feeding Wisconsin’s dedication to ending hunger, improving health, and strengthening communities across the state. We remain committed to working with leaders to support policies that address hunger in every community. Read the full letter below. "As we navigate through another election season, I wanted to reach out with a message of reassurance. At Feeding Wisconsin, our mission is unwavering: helping our food banks and partners fight hunger, improve health and strengthen local communities so that everybody in Wisconsin has access to the food and benefits they need to work, learn, play and live healthy lives. While leadership may change and policies may shift, our commitment to our neighbors remains steady. We are steadfast in our values of compassion, inclusivity, and respect for the dignity of every person. Our role as a support network extends beyond politics; we are dedicated to creating a thriving Wisconsin for all. Your generosity and trust make it possible for us to stay focused on these values and our goals, no matter what lies ahead. Together, we will continue working for a healthier, more food secure future. Thank you for your continued support and partnership. With gratitude, Jackie Anderson Executive Director, Feeding Wisconsin"

This week, Feeding Wisconsin had the incredible opportunity to join the Summer Food Celebration at the LaCrosse Area YMCA! We were thrilled to connect with Cindy Long, USDA Deputy Under Secretary, and Alan Shannon, USDA Midwest Region Public Affairs, to discuss the vital role of food access in keeping our communities healthy and well-nourished.

Exciting news! Wisconsin is the first state to receive federal approval for the Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) program, which provides extra funds for families & their children while school is out. Deposited automatically on the QUEST card, families will get $120 for each eligible child to use to buy food at places like grocery stores, farmers markets – anywhere that FoodShare benefits are accepted. Visit https://lnkd.in/gaFaBYsM to learn more about the Summer EBT program & how to apply to FoodShare. --- ?Noticias emocionantes! Wisconsin es el primero estado que ha recibido la aprobación federal para el programa del verano, Transferencia Electrónica de Beneficios (EBT). Este programa provee de fondos extra para familias y sus ni?os mientras que los ni?os no estén en la escuela. Los fondos se depositan en la tarjeta QUEST y las familias recibirán $120 para cada nino elegible para comprar alimentos en las tiendas de comestibles, los mercados de agricultores – a cualquier sitio que acepta los beneficios de FoodShare. Visite https://lnkd.in/gaFaBYsM para aprender más sobre el programa del verano EBT y cómo solicitar a FoodShare.

Thank you to all who advocated for a statewide Nutrition Incentive Program (SB 948/AB 1013)! This program, called Double Dollars, Double Up Food Bucks, or Market Match, will provide matching dollars so that families participating in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) can purchase additional fruits and veggies from participating farmers markets, community-supported agriculture programs (CSAs), grocery stores, and other nutritious food retailers. For more information about this initiative, visit: https://lnkd.in/g468t5S2

Today is the last day to register to join Feeding Wisconsin and Wisconsin Partners for a nonpartisan overview of the new state legislative maps. Learn about the implications for upcoming elections and gain a deeper understanding of the political landscape in Wisconsin. To register, visit: https://lnkd.in/gXPpfjCD