If you arrive at Shalom Center in Kenosha on a Wednesday or Friday, you’ll probably see Jeanne checking people in or loading cars!

Jeanne has been volunteering at Shalom Center for just over two years and has seen the need in her community rising. But she recently experienced a worrying milestone at the pantry.

“It’s been slowly increasing. Last Wednesday, we had our second busiest day ever.”

High prices for groceries and cuts in benefits have created the perfect storm of hunger across the state. “There are days we come close to running out of food. We’re almost out of bread right now, so we’re making the box smaller than we usually do. So, we always need more,” Jeanne says of the crisis of growing need.

Knowing the need, Jeanne is determined to continue volunteering. As someone who has overcome substance use challenges, she knows the power of good deeds. “It’s my way of giving back and making amends,” she says.

Jeanne and other volunteers like her are the lifeblood of all our partner pantries. Interested in volunteering? Visit FeedingAmericaWI.org/Volunteer to learn more.

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