Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin proudly announces that Milwaukee Bucks forward Bobby Portis Jr. has been appointed to its Board of Directors. A long-time partner and advocate, Portis has worked alongside the organization for more than four years, supporting collection drives, funding mobile food distributions, and using his platform to raise awareness about food insecurity, especially among children. His appointment to the Board marks a significant step forward in his commitment to making a lasting impact on families facing hunger across Eastern Wisconsin.

Known for his tenacity and passion on the court and his generosity off it, Portis has played a vital role in advancing Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin’s mission to solve hunger. Since 2021, he has served as the ambassador for the PB&J Challenge, an annual campaign that raises awareness of child hunger and collects donations of peanut butter and jelly – essential shelf-stable foods that provide vital nutrition for children. With Portis’ visibility behind the campaign, the PB&J Challenge has inspired community participation across Eastern Wisconsin, raising the equivalent of over 2.1 million peanut butter sandwiches. Additionally, his financial support through The Bobby Portis Foundation has helped provide nearly 185,000 meals to families in underserved neighborhoods across Greater Milwaukee.

“For me, giving back has always been bigger than basketball,” said Portis. “Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin has been an amazing partner. Joining the Board of Directors allows me to do even more and leave a lasting legacy on the Milwaukee community and for the incredible people who live and work here. I want to keep using my platform to make a difference and help as many families as possible.”

Raised by a hardworking single mother in Little Rock, Arkansas, Portis experienced firsthand the challenges families face in putting meals on the table and the difference that adequate access to nutritious food can make. These experiences shaped his passion for giving back and inspired him to establish The Bobby Portis Foundation, which supports single mothers and families in need. Portis’ commitment to hunger relief is deeply personal, making his partnership with Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin all the more meaningful and his leadership on the Board a natural extension of his values.

“Bobby’s heart for the community is undeniable,” said Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin President and CEO, Patti Habeck. “He doesn’t just talk about making a difference – he puts it into action. His leadership, generosity, and hands-on dedication to our mission make him an invaluable addition to our Board.”
As a Board Member, Portis will help guide the organization’s strategic priorities, bringing a unique perspective shaped by lived experience. His leadership will strengthen Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin’s impact across its 35-county service area, ensuring families, children, and seniors have consistent access to the nutritious food they need to thrive.

Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin invites community members, businesses, and leaders to join in advancing its mission. To learn more about how we can work together to build stronger, healthier communities where everyone has access to the food they need, visit FeedingAmericaWI.org.