St. Vincent de Paul Society of Marinette received funds earlier this year from the Women’s Giving Circle Fund held at the M&M Area Community Foundation to provide female-headed households in Marinette access to the three items hungry families most need to avoid food insecurity: dairy products such as milk, cheese or yogurt, Fresh fruits and vegetables, and lean proteins.
The food pantry relies primarily on donated food. However, perishable foods are rarely donated. Because of a relationship with vendors like Great Lakes Foods and Feeding America, the pantry is able to get lower prices than what is available at a grocery store.
Female-headed households are more likely than any other demographic (after African Americans) to be living in poverty and more likely than any other to be dependent on food assistance to make ends meet.
Bonnie Matthews, food pantry manager, says, “A meal of pasta and canned sauce can be inexpensive to provide at the food pantry. However, in terms of nutrition, a fresh vegetable like broccoli or sweet potato coupled with a lean protein like chicken can go much further in promoting health and well-being.”
The Women’s Giving Circle of Marinette and Menominee Counties is in its tenth year of building a community of engaged women and supporting organizations that address issues of interest to women and girls.
