Our Approach

We exist to end hunger in southwestern Wisconsin

Our work at Second Harvest brings food to our shared community. It is through partnerships and collaboration that we are able to meet the nutritional needs of our neighbors facing hunger. Additionally, as part of the food system, we are able to reduce waste by rescuing fresh, safe, and edible food that would otherwise be lost and put it straight into the hands of neighbors who can benefit from it.

• Food Rescue and Storage
  Each year we acquire and store tens of millions of pounds of food from local and regional farmers, food manufacturers, and grocers, which allows us to reduce food waste, turning excess into access.

• Food Distribution
  Through our powerful network of nearly 300 partners and programs, we distribute more than 20 million pounds of nutritious and culturally responsive food throughout 16 counties every year.

• FoodShare Advocacy
  In Wisconsin, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is administered as FoodShare. Approximately 700,000 Wisconsinites receive FoodShare support, and eligibility is determined by a variety of factors including the income and expenses of a household. To find out if you may be eligible for FoodShare, you can:
  • Call the toll-free FoodShare Helpline at 1-877-366-3635
  • Submit an application online through Wisconsin Department of Health Services