PLATTEVILLE, Wis. — District 17 State Senate candidate Lisa White is urging southwest Wisconsin residents to continue supporting local food pantries, emphasizing that food insecurity remains a serious challenge even after the restoration of federal nutrition benefits.
Following the October–November 2025 federal government shutdown and suspension of SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits, White and her team launched the SNAP BACK Food Collection Program- the initiative aimed to relieve food insecurity across southwest Wisconsin.
Nearly 30 businesses joined the effort by hosting SNAP BACK collection boxes, helping gather supplies for families in need.
“With SNAP benefits temporarily restored and the holidays winding down, I’m concerned that food-insecure families may once again be forgotten,” White said. “We must keep that spirit of generosity going year‑round.”
Food insecurity affects roughly one in ten residents across southwest Wisconsin, including Grant, Crawford, Lafayette, Green, and Iowa counties. Rural families, seniors, and low‑wage workers are especially vulnerable, even when someone in the household is employed or receiving public benefits.
Access barriers compound the challenge. Many small towns lack nearby grocery stores, leaving residents reliant on convenience stores with higher prices and limited healthy options. Rising fuel costs and limited transportation make it harder for families to reach food pantries, grocery stores, and school or community meal programs.
Local food pantries continue to report high demand, and FoodShare (SNAP) participation remains above pre‑pandemic levels—clear signs that many families still struggle to afford enough food each month. Food insecurity also contributes to chronic health conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure while adding stress for those juggling housing, energy, and medical costs.
Communities are stepping up with expanded mobile pantries, farm‑to‑food‑bank programs, and partnerships with local farmers to bring fresh food into rural areas—efforts that both strengthen local agriculture
and improve family nutrition.
Residents can find their nearest food donation site by visiting 211 Wisconsin online and searching for “food pantry” by ZIP code, or by dialing 211 to speak directly with a local operator. UW–Extension can also help connect residents with local food resources. Additional ways to find or participate in local food programs include checking with Second Harvest, SWCAP, ADRC, churches, hospitals, and community Facebook pages.
White expressed gratitude to her senate team, the southwest Wisconsin businesses and residents who supported SNAP BACK. “Thanks to their generosity, over 800 pounds of food and $200 in cash were collected,” she said. “Those donations helped feed veterans, children, seniors, and other neighbors experiencing food shortages across District 17.”
Contact:
Lisa White for Wisconsin State Senate, District 17
Email: info@lisawhiteforwisconsin.com
Phone: 608.885.4311
