11/13 - FROM THE CART: Support Waitlist & End of Government Shutdown
Welcome to From the Cart: Where our team can directly update you with the latest information around MKE Grocery Buddies.
SHORT PAUSE ON REQUESTS
Unfortunately, we’re taking a short pause on accepting new requests from neighbors in need of support.
MKE Grocery Buddy runs entirely on neighbors helping neighbors. Right now, the number of families reaching out for support is higher than the number of Grocery Buddies available to give.
For now, we’re focusing on matching the requests we’ve already received. If you need grocery support, please fill out this form to stay in touch—we’ll reach out by email once we’re able to welcome new requests again.
In the meantime, you can find a list of other local food access resources here.
SHARE YOUR STORY & INSPIRE OTHERS
A number of local media organizations have reached out to cover MKE Grocery Buddy and the connections we’ve built together in our community.
We’d love to use this opportunity to inspire more neighbors to step up as grocery buddies so we can reopen our request form and support even more families.
If you’re part of a matched buddy pair and would be willing to share the impact of our program on your family or a neighbor, we’d love to hear from you so we can help coordinate an interview.
We understand the sensitivity of this topic, and our intent is not to get “coverage” but to inspire others to join our movement. In most cases, you can remain anonymous. There’s absolutely no pressure—participate only if it feels right for you.
If you’re interested or want to learn more, please email mkegrocerybuddy@gmail.com with the subject line: Share My Story.
Thank you for helping us share the difference we can make together in our community!
RESPONSE TO END OF THE GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN
With the reopening of the federal government and funding for SNAP secured through September 2026, we are relieved that immediate support for families has been restored. Yet, our experience during the recent SNAP delays has shown just how real and persistent food insecurity remains in our community.
Many families rely on SNAP, food banks, and free meal programs for essential support. Still, gaps—such as limited visits, transportation challenges, and funding constraints—can leave some families struggling to put enough food on the table.
Our commitment is clear: MKE Grocery Buddy isn’t going anywhere, and we will continue working alongside our neighbors, volunteers, and community partners to ensure families have the support they need, now and in the future.
That being said, we understand that many grocery buddies and neighbors reached out to us to provide and receive immediate aid. We are a community-run program that relies on honesty and communication. If you need to update the amount of support you can give or receive, please fill out the forms below. These forms are only for those who have already submitted a volunteer or request form.
We deeply appreciate those brave enough to ask for help and those who continue to step up for their neighbors.
Together, let’s keep showing up for our neighbors and making a difference every day.
