MILWAUKEE – Local food pantries are adjusting now that the government shutdown is over. They faced a surge in demand during the shutdown, and even though federal food assistance is resuming, many pantries are still feeling the pressure.
In the Milwaukee area, places like the House of Peace and the Jewish Community Pantry have been quite busy. During the shutdown, their daily numbers jumped from around 50-60 households to over 100. “That was the busiest we have been in 50 years of serving,” said Heidi Gould from the Jewish Community Pantry. Despite a recent decrease, the holiday season is expected to bring a lot of activity.
While donations have poured in, some pantries still had to dip into their own funds to keep up. “We spent $10,000 from our budget meant for other things just to keep our shelves stocked with essentials,” Gould added. They are prepping now for holiday distributions, including turkeys and other festive foods.
Experts are noting that food insecurity remains a critical issue. According to recent statistics, nearly 30% of families in the area rely on food pantries, a number that spikes during tough economic times. With rising food prices, demand isn’t expected to drop significantly anytime soon. “The cost of food hasn’t changed; it’s still high, and people continue to need help,” said Linda Barnes from House of Peace.
Looking ahead, pantry leaders are concerned about the implications of upcoming changes with SNAP benefits. They’re bracing for potential challenges that may arise when families lose some healthcare tax benefits. Donations will continue to be vital for these pantries. The city’s food drive will run through Thanksgiving, with organizers evaluating further needs afterwards.
As local pantries navigate these challenges, community support remains crucial. They are not just feeding families; they are providing hope and stability during uncertain times.
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