Local individuals and families in need can stop by the Dodge County Fairgrounds next Friday, February 26 between 2:00-4:00 pm to make the end of the month a little more manageable. Feeding America of Eastern Wisconsin have partnered with the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Marshfield Medical Center-Beaver Dam. Local groups will be distributing healthy food directly to Dodge County families and individuals in need. All are welcome and quantities are limited. This free event is scheduled for two hours, but food will only be distributed while it lasts.
Families will enjoy fresh, local produce from farmers across the Midwest. Local produce collected is a result of the USDA Farmers to Families Program. This unique offering is a result of the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program and the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, where local agricultural products have been purchased and distributed to families in need. Up to $6 billion in fresh produce, dairy and meat products will be purchased from farmers and producers across the United States to reduce waste and assist those who are currently experiencing a financial burden. Up to 1,000 family-sized boxes are expected to be distributed in Beaver Dam this month. Through the past five distribution events, the local groups have donated over 125,000 pounds of food to families in need. Another 25,000 or more is expected to be distributed at the February event.
Though each box varies slightly, families will enjoy produce such as: potatoes, onions, carrots, oranges and apples. Dairy items, including a variety of yogurt, cottage cheese and milk will also be included. Meat offerings may include: beef, chicken or pork.
The February 26th event in Beaver Dam is a no-contact pick-up. Attendees should drive-up for food distribution. Attendees are asked to use Highway W to access Fabisch Road and follow the road to the Fairgrounds entrance. Follow the posted signs for directions and remain patient while waiting in their vehicles. Do not exit your vehicle once you have entered the Fairgrounds. Attendees are asked to wear a mask if they need to exit their vehicle for any reason.
Goods are limited and available only while they last. Only one box will be offered to each vehicle, unless picking up on behalf of a homebound individual. Volunteers will load the box of food into the vehicle’s trunk or back seat after it has been unlocked and opened. Make sure that you have room to accommodate this box. Windows should remain closed.
Events such as this require a large group of volunteers to make it run safely and effectively. If you or your organization are currently seeking a volunteer opportunity, consider registering at volunteerdodge.net to donate your time on Feb 26th.
Up-to-date information related to weather cancellations can be accessed via Facebook.
This free event is open to the public. However, each person(s) accepting a box of food is certifying that they are high-need and currently food insecure, lacking financial or other resources, and are in need of the food for their own household.
Article by Jamie Adcock author of runningdivamom.com and sunprairiemom.com
