FoodShare Delays, City-County Food Drive Progress, WIC benefits, and ACA Updates
The City of Milwaukee Health Department (MHD) continues to lead coordination efforts with the City of Milwaukee and Milwaukee County, monitoring the impacts of the ongoing federal government shutdown on local food and health programs, including FoodShare, WIC, and Affordable Care Act (ACA) coverage, while also connecting affected families with community support.
FoodShare Update
According to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS), November FoodShare benefits remain delayed until the federal government releases funding. DHS is closely monitoring ongoing federal court cases that could result in partial benefits being issued, but no timeline has been announced. FoodShare members can continue to use any funds currently available on their QUEST cards, which will not be removed during the shutdown.
In response to the FoodShare delay, the City of Milwaukee and Milwaukee County launched a joint food drive last week in partnership with Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin and NourishMKE, alongside key community partners including the Milwaukee Bucks, Milwaukee Public Schools, and multiple faith-based organizations.
Thanks to generous community donations, the drive has now raised more than $74,000, enough to fund over 222,000 meals for families across the region. This total includes a generous contribution from the Brewers Community Foundation, which donated $10,000 each to Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin and Hunger Task Force in support of the emergency food drive. The organization is encouraging Brewers fans to join in giving back during this critical time.
The drive has seen remarkable community engagement, with donation sites expanding to include the Milwaukee County King Community Center, the Milwaukee County Kosciuszko Community Center, and others. It is a powerful reminder of how Milwaukee shows up for its own when it matters most and is just one of many food drives happening across our community. The City and County encourage everyone to give where they can, whether that’s donating to this effort, supporting local pantries, or volunteering their time.
Residents can find a list of food donation sites and links to donate online through the following pages:
WIC Benefits
The WIC program remains active and continues to provide services and benefits through the end of November. Families should keep using their WIC benefits and attend scheduled appointments.
Affordable Health Coverage Still Available to Milwaukee Families
Despite the ongoing federal shutdown, residents can still access health insurance through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace. MHD’s Community Healthcare Access Program (CHAP) continues to help individuals and families compare plans, apply for subsidies, and enroll before the January 15 deadline.
While premiums are expected to rise nationwide, federal tax credits and cost-sharing reductions remain available to help offset costs. MHD encourages people to review their options and update their information to ensure they receive the correct level of support.
MHD continues to encourage people in Milwaukee to stay informed, support their neighbors, and reach out for assistance when needed.
NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.
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