River Valley Residents Changing the World

Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world: indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.

--Margaret Mead

According to the 2023 USDA report, 13.5 percent (which translates to 18 million) of US households were food insecure at some point during 2023. With the recent cuts to SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program—in other words, the food stamp program) that began in September, the numbers are estimated to rise in Wisconsin by 90,000 residents. The people in the River Valley that the Community Pantry serves has grown from 7, 146 in 2022 to 12,001 in 2024—a 40% increase in just two years. And this disturbing trend began before the SNAP cuts happening now.

So, what can you do to help fight this growing problem in our community?

Every month volunteers gather at the back of Spring Green Community Church as a force for good. Since storage and freezer space is limited, volunteers begin the day before, moving food from five different locations to the church where the pantry is housed. On distribution day, people fill, carry out, restock, and cleanup. And more are needed.

Always in the background (and always needed) are volunteers to organize, board members to make decisions to keep our food pantry running, people to pursue grants, organize fundraisers, and write articles.

Space in the current location is stacked to the ceilings and stuffed wall-to-wall with items, and once volunteers begin to work the space is jammed with workers shifting around each other and stacks of food to fill orders.  But also present is laughter and smiles from people who know they are working together to make our community better. The camaraderie built from being part of the food pantry team is one of the top reasons volunteers cite for what they love about helping. Another reason? The knowledge of their gift: a few hours one day a month, makes a huge different for their friends, neighbors, and community.

What makes a community great? The people. What makes a community strong? The people. What can make a huge difference in families’ lives? The people. In other words, YOU.

More volunteers are desperately needed.

If you have a few hours a month to spare, we have a need for you. Volunteers are sorely needed for distribution day, especially in the outside area and in the afternoons. No time? The pantry can still use your help. Donations are needed, not only to cover the rising costs of food and recent budget cuts to food programs, but the pantry is in dire need of a new home (see previous mentions—stacks of wall-to-wall food and storage in five different locations).

Volunteering time and/or money will make a positive change in our community, in our world, and in you! Add to the force for good and join us.

So spread the word, make a donation (better yet, make it monthly) and get involved. Help care for your friends and neighbors. We are hopeful, ready and waiting to have you join our crew. Where to start? More information is available at https://www.communityfoodpantryofspringgreen.org