Hunger in Our Community

Hunger is a community issue that affects a staggering number of people —the senior couple who lives next door, the young children in the neighborhood playdate, the family waiting in line at the grocery store. Wisconsin is one of the nation’s most abundant agricultural states, yet there are many children, families and seniors below the poverty line struggling to access the healthy food they need.

Hunger and poverty remain pressing issues affecting communities across Wisconsin, with significant impacts in urban centers like Milwaukee and in rural areas throughout the state. Understanding the scope of these challenges and the role of federal nutrition programs is essential for fostering a well-nourished and thriving population.

Hunger in Wisconsin

In Wisconsin, food insecurity continues to affect too many neighbors throughout our state. Recent data indicates that approximately 1 in 10 Wisconsin households experience food insecurity, highlighting the ongoing struggle many families face in accessing adequate nutrition. Children are particularly vulnerable, with 1 in 8 facing hunger in Wisconsin.

By supporting and advocating for robust federal nutrition programs and implementing local initiatives, we can work towards ensuring that all individuals have access to the nutritious food they need to lead healthy lives.

Hunger in Milwaukee: An Urban Perspective

Milwaukee, as the state’s largest city, experiences pronounced challenges related to hunger and poverty. As of 2020, 18.3% of Milwaukee residents live below the federal poverty line, with an alarming 26.4% of children affected.

The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated food insecurity in Milwaukee. Although there was a decline with the implementation of financial support programs, the conclusion of these initiatives has led to a renewed increase in demand for food resources.

Additionally, the city faces challenges related to food deserts—areas where residents have limited access to affordable and nutritious food. Recent data shows about 10% of Wisconsin’s population, or approximately 570,000 people, lived in areas meeting the criteria for food deserts, with Milwaukee being significantly impacted.

Hunger in Rural Communities Across Wisconsin

Several factors contribute to the heightened food insecurity in rural Wisconsin:

  • Limited Access to Food Retailers: Many rural areas are classified as food deserts, where residents have restricted access to affordable and nutritious food. The absence of supermarkets and grocery stores necessitates long travel distances, posing challenges for those without reliable transportation.​

  • Economic Constraints: Lower income levels and higher poverty rates limit the financial resources available for healthy food purchases. Economic downturns and job losses in these communities further strain household budgets.​

  • Reduced Participation in Assistance Programs: Stigma, lack of awareness, and logistical barriers can lead to lower enrollment in federal nutrition assistance programs like FoodShare and WIC.