Community Foundation launches local giving platform to strengthen food support efforts in Waushara County

The Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin has launched a local giving website that connects community generosity with the organizations feeding Waushara County residents every day.
The launch comes as local families face mounting challenges. Recent payment delays in Wisconsin FoodShare and SNAP benefits—triggered by the federal government shutdown—combined with persistent increases in grocery prices, have driven more residents to seek help from neighborhood food pantries. The Wisconsin Department of Health Services reports that 2,817 Waushara County residents relied on FoodShare benefits in September 2025, underscoring how vulnerable households are when assistance is disrupted, even briefly.
Food pantry directors throughout Waushara County report rising demand as winter approaches and household budgets tighten. Local food programs anticipate continued growth in the number of families seeking assistance in the weeks ahead.
Available through the Community Foundation’s website, the giving platform makes it easy and secure for community members to support local hunger relief efforts. Donors can choose to contribute where the need is greatest, or designate their gift to a specific food pantry. All contributions remain in Waushara County, enabling pantries to purchase fresh food, staple groceries, and grocery assistance cards for families facing food insecurity.
Organizations receiving support through this initiative include:

First Congregational UCC Food Pantry
Joseph Hope Food Pantry
Poy Sippi Community Food Pantry
Saxeville Food Pantry (Saxeville Community Church)
Waushara County Food Pantry
“When federal food assistance slows down, it’s our local safety net—the generosity and compassion of our neighbors—that makes the difference,” said Jenny Riggenbach, CEO of the Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin. “As we enter the holiday season, this platform offers a trusted and transparent way to give and help families who are struggling with food insecurity.”
Community members can learn more and make a tax-deductible gift at https://tinyurl.com/CFCWIdonate.