They Put Your Giving Spirit To Work
October 7, 2025
Meet Gigi and Yolanda, two caring people who put your generosity into action.
At the UMOS food pantry in Milwaukee, the pair work tirelessly to ensure people facing hunger in their community get the food they need.
Together, they have more than half a century on the job. Gigi, currently a resource supervisor, has been with the organization for nearly 36 years — working her way up from her humble beginnings as a receptionist. Yolanda, the pantry coordinator, has dedicated 25 years to providing food for those in need.
People from all walks of life turn to the UMOS food pantry for help. “We serve everybody,” Gigi explains. She notes that while they see many unhoused people, they also serve families that are struggling to keep a roof over their heads — and even some who may appear well-off but are also facing food insecurity issues.
Monday through Friday, the pantry opens to distribute food to up to 70 people every day. Each client receives prepacked boxes of food tailored to their family’s size, along with essentials like baby formula, diapers, and wipes. The focus remains on providing nutritious options, including fresh salads and healthy foods whenever possible.
Yolanda has witnessed significant changes over her tenure — and a very large spike in need during the pandemic. “It picked up a lot right around the COVID time,” she recalls. Today, with government benefits being reduced, she’s seeing a new surge of people coming to the pantry for help.
The pantry’s success depends heavily on partnerships, with Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin providing the foundation. And every dollar you donate stays local and helps ensure families have access to the food they need during these challenging times.
You make our community a better place. Gigi and Yolanda greatly appreciate your support, and so do we! Please take advantage of our current Food for the Holidays match, which will double the impact of every gift you make. Thank you so much!
