How MCF is responding and how you can help
November 11, 2025
Uncertainty continues around the future of FoodShare (SNAP) benefits as federal and state agencies navigate the impacts of the ongoing federal funding situation. While Wisconsin has distributed November FoodShare benefits, it’s unclear when future benefits will be paid.
For the more than 700,000 Wisconsinites who rely on FoodShare to meet basic needs — including 65,000 in Dane County — the interruption has been significant.
Local food pantries are already feeling the strain and are serving record numbers of families, including many seeking help for the first time. Organizations like Second Harvest Foodbank of Southern Wisconsin and its network of community partners have mobilized quickly to meet this surge in need.
What MCF Is Doing
Madison Community Foundation (MCF) is closely following these developments and assessing how best to respond as the situation evolves. We are focused on systems-level solutions — strengthening the local food access network and supporting innovation that meets urgent needs while building long-term resilience.
Through our Field of Interest Funds, which were created and grown by generous community members to support areas they care about, MCF has distributed $50,000 to Community Action Coalition of Southwestern Wisconsin and Second Harvest Foodbank of Southern Wisconsin. Together, they are piloting an innovative project that helps FoodShare-eligible residents in Greater Madison access funds directly to purchase food from their local grocers. This approach not only streamlines access but also eases pressure on food pantries and supports neighborhood stores that anchor our communities.
What You Can Do
People across our community are asking what they can do to help. If you’re inspired to take action — through a gift or a distribution from your donor advised fund — these organizations are working to meet the need in our community:
- Second Harvest Foodbank of Southern Wisconsin, which is working urgently to get more food out into the community.
- Dane County’s food pantries, which need donations more than ever.
- Madison Grocery Share, a grassroots effort connecting Madison neighbors who have lost SNAP benefits with those who can help with grocery costs.
One in nine Wisconsinites receives SNAP benefits. Families, older adults and people with disabilities are among those most affected. Community support makes a difference.
MCF can help you direct your giving to support our community members in need. If you’d like to learn more about local organizations addressing food insecurity, or explore ways your giving can strengthen our community today and in the future, we’re happy to talk. Please call us at 608-232-1763 or email legacy@madisongives.org if we can help.
