Stepping Stones of Dunn County has received two generous donations to supply turkeys and to cover two weeks of grocery costs in their pantry. However, the need for support remains great.
An anonymous donor generously purchased 200 turkeys from the local Walmart to supply for this Thanksgiving. In addition, the Menomonie Rotary Clubs stepped up and donated money to pay for 300 turkeys and two weeks of groceries to stock the food pantry shelves.
"It's amazing to see the community recognize the need and to step up in a way that impacts hundreds of people," said Corrisa Villeneuve, Assistant Director at Stepping Stones.
These community members stepped up and Stepping Stones needs your support too. The year 2024 has been difficult for the non-profit organization, which provides direct food assistance to more than 10% of Dunn County residents. It has struggled to cover the increased costs of its food pantry and emergency shelter programs, while receiving significantly less funding from government and corporate foundation grants than in previous years.
“We are seeing an average of 50 new households a month in our pantry with a 31% increase in second visits,” said Villeneuve. “Being able to provide 500 families with turkeys is a huge win and we are very grateful for the support. However, the need to cover costs for staple items in the pantry is still there.”
Stepping Stones still needs support from individuals and organizations that have donated turkeys and hams for distribution to the community in the past. It’s just a different type of support needed. Staple food and financial donations are vital to the households they serve, especially during the last months of the year.
“Please keep the support coming. We will use the funding to keep food abundant in our pantry. Instead of turkeys and hams, please consider donations of peanut butter, tuna, pasta, and other staples to keep food on the tables of thousands of individuals and families being served in Dunn County,” said Padraig Gallagher, Executive Director of Stepping Stones.
Submitted article.
