Milwaukee food pantries awarded more than $500K in grants

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Milwaukee leaders announced more than $500,000 in grant funding for organizations addressing food insecurity in the city Wednesday, March 22.

A press release says the funds were provided by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for "pantry services, remodeling existing facilities or to purchase equipment."

Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic, Common Council President José Pérez and Alderman Mark Chambers, Jr. made the announcement alongside Mayor Cavalier Johnson at the Bay View Community Center.

“Food insecurity doesn’t know borders, and well before the COVID-19 pandemic we had residents across all of Milwaukee who dealt with this issue that was only exacerbated by the pandemic,” said Alderwoman Dimitrijevic. “We must continue to ensure that resources are allocated to families and neighborhoods who need it so they can continue to have access to food. Organizations like the Bay View Community Center support those beyond just District 14 and it is vital we support their mission to strengthen our community.”

“Food insecurity touches all parts of Milwaukee," said Pérez. "And it was vital that these funds reflect that citywide need. I look forward to the impact these dollars will make as we seek to improve quality of life for our residents.”

The city says six organizations are receiving funding, including: 

• Bay View Community Center
• Silver Spring Neighborhood Center
• Northcott Neighborhood House
• WestCare Wisconsin
• United Methodist Children's Services
• Milwaukee Christian Center