OSHKOSH, Wis. (WISS) – With the uncertainty over the funding of SNAP and FoodShare benefits during the federal government shutdown, the Oshkosh Area Community Pantry (OACP) is expanding its hours in November.

A press release from OACP said the pantry will be open on Saturday, Nov. 8 and Nov. 22 from 10 a.m. until noon to help meet the increased need caused by delayed FoodShare benefits. Additionally, the pantry will maintain its regular hours of Mondays from 2 to 6 p.m. and Tuesdays through Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 2:45 p.m.

With more new shoppers expected during the expanded hours, community support is more critical than ever. The Oshkosh Area Community Pantry encourages individuals, businesses, and community groups to donate funds or food to help ensure enough food for all our neighbors this holiday season.

A growing need

More than 17,000 Winnebago County residents rely on FoodShare each month. In the Oshkosh area, 40 percent of FoodShare recipients are children and 10 percent are seniors. With benefits postponed, OACP anticipates increased demand from individuals and families who will need help bridging the gap. In October alone, families visited OACP 3,153 times – their second highest month on record – and OACP has welcomed an average of 100 new families every month for the past three years.

“We are so grateful to the partners, donors, and volunteers who continue to support us and have stepped up to make this emergency response possible,” says Ryan Rasmussen, Executive Director.

OACP guests can shop twice a month, plus one emergency shop per year. The added Saturday hours are intended to give those unable to visit during normal weekday hours an opportunity to shop, not to allow extra visits beyond the twice-per-month limit. OACP asks that guests who can shop during regular hours continue to do so, to ensure Saturday access for those who cannot.

This is a temporary schedule in response to the shutdown and the resulting delay in FoodShare benefits. OACP will continue to assess community needs as the situation progresses.

To learn more or make your gift now, visit the Oshkosh Area Community Pantry website.

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