In today’s tight economy, SHARE is an even more essential resource for an ever-increasing number of families.
When SHARE began in 1985 the need for the program was widespread, and now the need for families to stretch their budgets is equal if not greater. Reduced hours, lay-offs and foreclosures are having a huge impact. In the last fiscal year alone, participation in SHARE grew by approximately 20% and roughly 8,000 monthly members saved a total of over $1.2 million on groceries. In November SHARE distributed a record of over 14,000 Thanksgiving Dinner Packages through its regular volunteer network and partner organizations.
SHARE serves the community with savings on food all year long. A monthly selection of frozen meats, fresh fruits and vegetables, canned and dry goods, organic produce and convenience items is available. Everyone is welcome—there are no income requirements or eligibility guidelines. All that’s required for a family to participate is to place an order at the beginning of the month and pick up their food toward the end of the month. Pick-ups take place at nearly 200 volunteer-run locations throughout Wisconsin, the UP of Michigan, northern Illinois and northeastern Minnesota.
As part of its 25th anniversary celebration, the organization has created the SHARE Cares Food Fund. Donations of any size are accepted, but a $25 donation can provide a SHARE BIG Value Packageto a family in need. On its monthly order form, SHARE is also offering a monthly 25th Anniversary Special, and a portion of the proceeds from each sale will benefit the fund. More information is available at 800-548-2124 or www.sharewi.org .
SHARE has come a long way in the last 25 years. In 1999, SHARE began using an order form system that allows people not only to know the contents of the SHARE package, but it also allows them to pick and choose items a la carte. Plus, SHARE now offers online ordering, making it even more convenient for families to shop.
Through all of these improvements, volunteers have been the heart and soul of SHARE. Their hard work and dedication is what makes the program possible. By gathering people together whose paths might not otherwise cross, new connections are made, new leaders born and more families are served with care and compassion.
SHARE invites the public to get involved by purchasing food, volunteering, or by making a donation to the SHARE Cares Food Fund. For more information, call toll-free 800-548-2124 or visit www.sharewi.org.
