“Everyone’s Welcome Here”
January 20, 2026
For Sharon Furman of Oshkosh, the pantry she visits twice a week is about more than food — it’s a place of comfort, consistency, and connection.
“This means a lot. It helps me out a lot,” Sharon says. She’s retired and living on Social Security, and though she’s not working, she’s found purpose in showing up and spending time with others. “I also like to come here to meet friends and talk,” she explains.
Sharon has been coming to the pantry for two or three years now. She doesn’t visit any other pantries. “A lot of people are embarrassed to come here, but I said you shouldn’t be. Everybody and anybody comes, you just go and get what you need.”
Because of the food she receives, Sharon is able to put her income toward essentials like medication and bills — and avoid the impossible choices no one should have to make. “[With] the extra money for not buying groceries, I can pay my bills and get my medicine and stuff that I need,” she says. “If I didn’t get this, I would have [had to choose].”
And with prices rising at the grocery store, Sharon says she’s seen the need growing fast — for her and others in the community. “It’s crazy. If I couldn’t get it here, I would go without it.”
Still, Sharon’s spirit remains strong. “It’s a nice place to come, and everyone’s welcome. People are very nice and friendly.”
When asked what she would say to donors who support Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin and its partner pantries, Sharon doesn’t hesitate.
“I’d like to thank all the donors very much. Everyone appreciates what they’re doing for us. It’s a big help.”
Your gifts support food pantries throughout Eastern Wisconsin that are dedicated to helping our neighbors access the food they need to thrive and stay strong. Thank you!
