Beginning Saturday, November 1, Elver Park Neighborhood Center’s food pantry expects an unprecedented rise in need due to the government shutdown and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits running out. Many neighbors who visit the pantry also receive help through SNAP. While the pantry does not accept SNAP payments, it fills an important gap when benefits run short to ensure families are not hungry, or need to choose between food and other essentials, like paying a heat bill.
Meeting this increased demand is only possible with community support. Financial donations make the greatest impact, allowing staff to purchase exactly what is needed to fill gaps in inventory and meet neighbors’ needs, working with existing partnerships to receive food in bulk and/or at discounted prices.
Monetary donations make a measurable impact:
- +$1,000/week: Nearly doubles overall pantry output, enhancing both the quality and quantity of food distributed through the end of the year.
- +$500/week: Allows the pantry to double meat and protein availability, supporting 20–25 additional families weekly.
- +$300/week: Increases fruits, vegetables, and dairy items by 30–40 percent, including shelf-stable milk, canned fruit, and frozen produce.
- +$200/week: Expands pantry variety (pasta, soups, breakfast items, and snacks) to improve meal flexibility and nutritional options.
One in eight Americans rely on SNAP — including 65,000 people in Dane County according to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services. Without these benefits, many families will depend entirely on food pantries like the one at EPNC. Every dollar helps feed more families. In 2024, EPNC’s food pantry supported 768 people and distributed more than 70,000 pounds of food. As SNAP funding pauses, the Madison community will feel the strain but together, neighbors can ensure families have access to nutritious food and the support they need to thrive.
Donations help keep the pantry shelves stocked and the community fed. Donate today.
EPNC’s food pantry serves anyone regardless of residency or dependent status, and no documentation is required for visitors. The pantry will have extended hours as SNAP benefits are paused, and will be open Tuesday, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. and Thursday, 2-6 p.m. Visit the neighborhood center page for instructions on using the pantry.
