By Senator Dora Drake
Access to fresh and affordable food is a right for every resident. Recently, grocery store closures in Milwaukee County, along with cuts to food assistance programs, have put many Wisconsinites in jeopardy. The USDA has noted that many people in Milwaukee live more than half a mile from the nearest supermarket. This is even more concerning as five grocery store closures loom ahead.
Kroger has announced that it will shut down five stores, citing a need for efficiency and long-term health. These closures include locations near Silver Spring and in the Metcalfe Park neighborhood. This will create bigger food deserts, forcing residents to travel over a mile or more to find affordable grocery options. It’s easy for some to overlook the challenge of transportation; many people simply don’t have reliable access to a vehicle.
These store closures come at a time when food security is already strained. The recent changes to SNAP benefits mean that Wisconsin might face an annual loss of up to $314 million. Around 700,000 residents depend on these benefits, which help them buy essential groceries. Wisconsin Medicaid Director Bill Hanna has said this funding loss could drastically affect our healthcare, schools, and overall economy. Increasing paperwork requirements for families adds another layer of difficulty. More than 80,000 residents will now need to prove employment status, which could hurt those already struggling.
In addition to SNAP cuts, funding for local food purchase assistance is also under threat. These cuts could affect around 300 farmers, food banks, and schools across Wisconsin, halting $10 to $11 million in crucial support. Programs like SNAP not only provide food; they also stimulate the local economy and keep supermarkets open. Governor Evers has attempted to redirect funding to mitigate these issues, but those efforts have been blocked by some lawmakers.
Despite these challenges, I am working on initiatives to support those impacted by these closures and funding cuts. One proposal includes creating a $30 million Agricultural Purchase Program that would provide grants to food pantries for buying local produce. This would help lower costs for families while supporting our farmers. During recent budget negotiations, I also advocated for an additional $10 million for the Food Security Initiative, aimed at ensuring low-income families and seniors can access nutritious foods.
The grocery store closures are alarming. They threaten the health and well-being of countless residents and deepen the food insecurity crisis we face. Combined with drastic federal budget cuts, Wisconsin may need to grapple with these challenges, costing taxpayers more than $300 million annually. It’s imperative for policymakers and large corporations to act responsibly and protect our community’s food security. I am committed to taking the necessary steps to advocate for and support our residents during these tough times.
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Dora Drake,Food Insecurity,Pick N Save Closings
