Collaborations Are A Recipe For Success
“It’s incredible to see the scale of the impact we have together across Wisconsin.” – Emilie Williamson, RDN, CD, Division Corporate Affairs Manager, Pick ‘n Save and Metro Market
It’s hard to imagine how Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin could operate on the scale it does without the support of retail partners like Pick ‘n Save and Metro Market. With 86 stores within Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin’s service area, Pick ‘n Save and Metro Market help provide meals across Eastern Wisconsin via the Fresh Rescue Program that include meat, dairy products, and bakery items. In 2023, 32 million meals were donated across the state including nutritious food from retail locations, manufacturing, and supply chain facilities.
“It’s incredible to see the scale of the impact we have together across Wisconsin,” said Emilie Williamson, Division Corporate Affairs Manager for Pick ‘n Save and Metro Market.
These two retail chains also provide grants, sponsorships, matching contributions, and support to Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin for annual campaigns like Food for the Holidays, as well as the PB&J (Peanut Butter & Jelly) Challenge, which provides shelf-stable protein sources to local food pantry partners. Pick ‘n Save and Metro Market also are key partners for Milwaukee’s Stuff the Bus event – along with 99.1 The Mix and the Milwaukee County Transit System – which in 2023 collected 4,301 pounds of food for neighbors in need.
“Stuff the Bus is one of my favorite events, bringing together so many organizations to support those who are hungry in our community,” Emilie said. “In addition, our teams participate in many volunteer opportunities to support the food bank throughout the year.”
In her role, Emilie works closely with Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin on events and programs, which ultimately help nearby pantries get food into homes as quickly as possible.
“Through our collaboration, we are living our purpose to Feed the Human Spirit and increasing access to food for individuals and families who might need it.”
Emilie’s passion for food developed early, with a desire to learn about new foods and expand her palate. “As soon as I grew up and started exploring things, I wanted to taste more food and try more food.” Emilie earned a degree in hospitality and food service management, working at restaurants and events before coming to Roundy’s, which is now part of Kroger.
“When you talk to people, you have the unique opportunity to see how food plays a role in their story – part of my job is to help make sure other people get to create those memories,” Emilie said.
During the pandemic, Emilie continued her education becoming a registered dietitian. That certification helps her to enhance those conversations about food and health, and it’s why she appreciates the efforts by Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin to craft food boxes with specific nutrient attributes or organic components.
“Our organizations are making the effort to provide food choices that resonate in our communities and by tailoring offers, we are supporting the needs of the individuals that make up our community,” Emilie said. “Providing access to fresh, nutritious, affordable food options and choices is vital.”
In August 2023, Pick ‘n Save and Metro Market partnered with Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin on another new initiative, accepting FoodShare benefits for refrigerated Kroger Delivery services and offering 500 gift cards to cover the delivery charges.
“Together, we create impactful and unique collaborations,” Emilie said. “Through our combined resources, we are creating the recipes that enable us to provide more meals across our shared communities and increase food access for those in need.”
