USDA Cancels $615K Food Delivery to Milwaukee’s Hunger Task Force: A Shocking Setback in the Fight Against Hunger
The Story Behind the Cancellation
In a startling announcement, Milwaukee’s Hunger Task Force revealed that it will not be receiving $615,000 worth of essential food supplies this summer due to a sudden halt in funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). This nonprofit food pantry, dedicated to alleviating hunger in the community, reports that this cancellation is part of a larger issue affecting food banks across the country as the USDA has paused $500 million in food deliveries nationwide.
Understanding the Impact of USDA’s Decision
This cancellation, reported by WISN 12 News, has significant implications for both local food banks and the farmers who partner with them. According to the Hunger Task Force, the USDA’s funding was mainly distributed through its Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC), which plays a crucial role in sourcing food directly from American farmers and ranchers for emergency relief efforts.
What Was Expected?
Two sizable orders totaling $2.2 million in food supplies were expected to arrive in Wisconsin between June and September. The abrupt cessation of funding means that the Hunger Task Force has now lost five full truckloads of essential items such as canned chicken, cheese, milk, and eggs, along with eight partial truckloads of meats, including turkey breasts and pork chops.
This loss translates into an astonishing 302,000 pounds of food valued at $615,000—over 25% of the total canceled for the entire state.
Voices of Concern
"This is having a big impact, not only for food banks around the country and here in Milwaukee but also for our growers and farmers," expressed Matt King, CEO of the Hunger Task Force.
Adding to the distress, the Hunger Task Force recently faced another significant setback when it lost $250,000 in funding due to the conclusion of the Local Food Purchase Assistance Agreement Program, which provided vital resources for purchasing high-quality local food.
Community Reactions
Local farmer Lauren Pomodaro of Happy Day Farmhaus shared her concerns with WISN 12 News, stating, "They are just not going to be able to eat it anymore; it’s going back to like that canned food or whatever non-perishable they have."
USDA’s Response
WISN 12 News reached out to the USDA for clarification. While they did not provide a direct response to the inquiry, a spokesperson stated on March 30, “The Biden administration created unsustainable programming and expectations using the Commodity Credit Corporation. Regardless, USDA continues to purchase food for programs, with over $166 million spent in FY 2025 to date.”
The USDA also mentioned ongoing efforts to strengthen food security through other funding avenues, including an additional $261 million in Section 32 purchases recently approved to aid food banks.
A Resilient Community
Despite this daunting challenge, the Hunger Task Force remains determined to support those in need. "It’s a challenge, and it’s a setback, especially amidst a time of increased need, but we do have enough food and support from the community to weather this challenge," said King.
Your Role in the Fight Against Hunger
In light of these developments, community support has never been more vital. The Hunger Task Force is committed to ensuring that emergency food networks continue to operate effectively even in the face of adversity.
For more information about how you can support the Hunger Task Force and make a difference in the community, visit their official website here.
As the situation evolves, it is crucial to stay informed and engaged. Together, we can work towards a sustainable solution to hunger in Milwaukee and beyond.
