With the holiday season and harsh Wisconsin winter fast approaching, along with the federal government shutdown, immense stress has been put on SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), which has led to ongoing hunger concerns for many families.
As local businesses that are deeply rooted in our communities, we have a unique opportunity and responsibility to step up and provide support to our friends and neighbors in need. Below are four ways you can support your local community and food banks and pantries amid this uncertainty and going forward:
Round Up to Donate Campaign
Invite your customers to make a small but meaningful impact by rounding up their purchases to the nearest dollar. The extra change may seem minor, but when pooled together, it can make a significant difference for local families in need. Inform customers that all proceeds from this initiative will go directly to a designated local food assistance charity. This simple act of generosity at checkout allows your customers to be part of something bigger, helping them to nourish their neighbors with every transaction.
Donate the “Day Olds”
Partner with a local food bank or shelter to donate unsold baked goods at the end of each day. These items, while no longer fresh enough for sale, are still perfectly good to eat and can bring comfort to someone experiencing food insecurity. This initiative not only reduces food waste but also ensures that your bakery plays an active role in supporting the well-being of your community. It is a win-win for sustainability and social impact.
Host a Community Donation Drive
Transform your bakery into a hub of giving by organizing a donation drive for non-perishable food items. Encourage customers to bring canned goods, boxed meals, and other shelf-stable items. To kick things off, consider donating some of your own staples—like flour, sugar, or a few of your signature baked goods. Promote with drive-through signage, social media, and word of mouth to maximize participation. You may even consider offering a discount on a baked good for customers who bring a donation. Once collected, deliver the donations to a local food pantry or shelter where they’ll be distributed to families in need.
Set up a “Sharing Shelf”
Create a “sharing shelf” where people can grab what they need with no questions asked. With the shutdown impacting the benefits of more people than ever before, some people who aren’t quite in the habit of going to a food pantry may need a little help closer to home. By sourcing extra non-perishable donations from the community and adding in your own baked goods, you can bridge the gap of food insecurity in your neighborhood right in your own store.
Takeaways – Don’t Stop There!
These efforts are just the beginning. The need for food assistance is growing, especially during the holiday season, and your continued involvement can make a lasting difference. Encourage your customers to volunteer at local food banks and consider organizing staff volunteer days as well. The more visible and consistent your support, the more you’ll inspire others to join in.
At Valley, we’re proud to support our local food pantries and believe in the power of community-driven generosity. Whether it’s through donations, drives, or simply spreading awareness, every action counts. Together, let’s keep the spirit of giving alive.
