South Milwaukee Human Concerns is a Lifeline for Families in Need

Now in its 51st year of essential service to the community that bears its name, South Milwaukee Human Concerns (SMHC) is a decades-long and steadfast partner with Hunger Task Force. Serving nearly one-third of South Milwaukee residents each year, SMHC prioritizes offering healthy and hearty food options, made possible through the invaluable support of Hunger Task Force.

“What we can offer our clients through our work with Hunger Task Force is the critical link to sustaining efforts with our thousands of clients,” said Deb DeBoer, SMHC director. “We are not just a partner with Hunger Task Force, our relationship has evolved and grown into a lifeline for our clients as they navigate food insecurity.”

Through ups and downs in the economy, personal difficulties and the volatile costs of groceries, SMHC is that secure safety net in times of need. SMHC’s holistic approach to addressing need is essential to building a more resilient and equitable community.

SMHC’s primary mission is a food pantry that serves more than 275 families monthly and over 8,500 unique clients annually. It also offers clients a wholistic experience through men’s, women’s and children’s clothing; basic household items; and provides school supplies and modest holiday gifts to children of clients. SMHC’s holistic approach to addressing the facets of poverty is essential to building a more resilient and equitable community.

“Despite the increasing demand on our services, we manage to provide that critical help and hope to all who access us,” DeBoer said. “It’s an ongoing challenge. Our partnership with Hunger Task Force truly mitigates those challenges so we can continue to focus on the needs of those we serve.”  

To support South Milwaukee Human Concerns or learn more about their food pantry, visit smhumanconcerns.org.

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.