Meet Our Hunger Relief Federation Member Stevens Point Salvation Army

Dec 18, 2024

Hunger Task Force is the founding member of the Hunger Relief Federation, which is a statewide association of independent food banks and food pantries. Stevens Point Salvation Army, a member of the federation since 2017, is dedicated to fighting local hunger through its resident meal service at its onsite Hope Center and bag meal program for non-residents. 

At The Hope Center, residents who stay at the shelter receive a free and healthy breakfast, lunch and dinner prepared by a professional chef. In 2023, nearly 300 people received food and shelter at The Hope Center.

Additionally, the staff chef prepares healthy to-go meals for those in need who do not reside at The Hope Center. Right now, Stevens Point Salvation Army staff are distributing nearly 2,000 to-go meals monthly.

“A year ago, we only provided cold-bagged meals,” said Leigh Ann Trzinski, Director of the Stevens Point Salvation Army. “Since we introduced hot meals, we’ve seen foot traffic nearly triple. For many individuals, our bagged meal may be the only time they get something warm to eat.”

During this holiday season, Stevens Point Salvation Army is experiencing a large increase in people reaching out who need help. Many are sacrificing food to cover their other costs. According to Trzinski, some are choosing between food and holiday gifts and others are needing to dedicate funds to either food or housing.

During Christmas time, Leigh Ann ensures residents at The Hope Center are celebrated. She puts up a well-decorated Christmas tree and provides presents for everyone. Small families and individuals residing at the center will also receive a festive holiday meal.

“This is home for them. They don’t have anything else, so it’s my pleasure to ensure their home is as nice as possible,” adds Leigh Ann.

For more information on the Hunger Relief Federation, which connects anti-hunger advocate partners throughout the state to combat hunger region-by-region visit www.HungerTaskForce.org/federation.

Hunger Task Force is Milwaukee’s Free & Local food bank and Wisconsin’s anti-hunger leader. The organization’s core values are Dignity, Justice, Equity, Compassion and Stewardship. Hunger Task Force feeds people today by providing healthy and culturally appropriate food to hungry children, families and seniors in the community absolutely free of charge. Hunger Task Force also works to end future hunger by advocating for strong public policies and nutrition programs at the local, state and federal level.