A grassroots initiative in Waukesha County, Wisconsin, has emerged in response to the potential loss of food assistance benefits amid the ongoing federal government shutdown. A Facebook post by local mother Rachel Hartberg sparked the movement, as she reached out in a private moms’ group to see if anyone needed support with the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP). The post quickly attracted attention, with numerous mothers offering to contribute rather than seeking assistance.
Hartberg initially expected minimal engagement, thinking only a few families might respond. However, she was surprised to wake up the next morning to a flood of messages from women eager to help. “I woke up and was like, ‘Oh, people actually want to help,'” Hartberg reflected on the overwhelming response.
The SNAP program, which provides essential food assistance to families, is fully federally funded. The ongoing government shutdown raises concerns that benefits could be disrupted, leaving many families vulnerable. This situation has prompted significant community concern.
Among the first to respond to Hartberg’s call for aid was her friend Megan Zintek, who expressed her emotional reaction to the potential food insecurity facing local children. “We were literally tearing up about it, just thinking about kids being hungry,” Zintek shared. Despite the challenges, she remarked on Hartberg’s initiative, stating, “Here we are having these conversations, Rachel does something about it.”
As the effort gained momentum, Hartberg dedicated her day to collecting donations across Waukesha County. So far, approximately 30 to 40 individuals have stepped forward to offer support, while 15 families have reached out for food assistance.
Rising Demand for Food Assistance
The demand for food assistance is increasing throughout southeastern Wisconsin. According to Impact 211, an organization that assists in connecting residents with resources, there has been an average of 81 requests for food assistance per day since the government shutdown began in October 2023. This figure marks the highest number of requests in two years, highlighting the urgent need for support within the community.
Hartberg emphasized the importance of solidarity among women during difficult times. “I feel like women stick together,” she stated. “Bringing people together to make sure people don’t go hungry.” This sentiment resonates deeply in the community as families confront the uncertainties brought on by the federal shutdown.
As the situation continues to develop, local residents remain hopeful that community efforts will provide relief to those in need. The initiative led by Hartberg and others underscores the power of grassroots movements in addressing immediate challenges faced by families across the region.
