SHARE is an important link in the chain of food security in nearly 200 communities throughout Wisconsin, the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, northern Illinois and northeastern Minnesota. Our nonprofit food buying club is currently celebrating its 25th year of providing access to good, nutritious food at reduced cost through a self-help distribution system. As a part of those celebrations, the SHARE Cares Food Fund extends the impact of our work by raising funds to help feed families in need. We invite you to join us—your donation of any size will add up to make a big difference.
Our regular food buying program enables families to stretch their dollars by purchasing food at a savings of 30-50% compared to supermarket prices. That’s what has always made SHARE different than food pantries and other free food programs. But we know that especially in these tough economic times, many families are not able to purchase food—even at SHARE’s great prices.
At many times during our history, in addition to our regular program’s focus on stretching families’ food dollars, SHARE’s volunteer network has also helped provide food to families in need. As part of our annual Share The Season holiday campaign, our volunteers have collected donations to make sure that everyone in their community can enjoy complete and delicious holiday meals. During the holidays we also partner with social service agencies, churches and other community groups who collect donations and purchase food through SHARE for families in need. And for several years, SHARE’s main office has raised funds through our Christmas Challenge to provide food to families in need. Because SHARE serves over 8,000 families every month with savings of 30-50% compared to grocery store prices, the value of these donations is stretched by the power of our volunteer network.
Donations to the SHARE Cares Food Fund will be used to help feed families in need throughout our service area. Donations of any size are welcome. To celebrate our 25th anniversary, we encourage donations of $25 or more. $25 can provide a family with a SHARE BIG Value Package, which includes fresh produce, canned goods and frozen meats. It’s enough food to feed a family of four for at least a week.
To donate to the SHARE Cares Food Fund, make your check payable to SHARE, PO Box 403, Butler, WI, 53007. Note “SHARE Cares Food Fund” in the memo line of your check. SHARE of Southeastern Wisconsin, Inc. is designated as a tax-exempt, charitable activity under IRS Section 501-C-3, so your donation is tax deductible to the extent allowed by law. We will send you a donation receipt in the mail.
Another easy way to donate to the SHARE Cares Food Fund is on our monthly order form. Every month through September 2010, our order form will feature a 25th Anniversary Special to benefit the SHARE Cares Food Fund. $1 of every purchase will benefit the fund.
Families in need will be identified through SHARE’s volunteer network. In nearly 200 communities, SHARE volunteer teams are recognized as leaders for food security. Our volunteers have strong relationships not just with families in their communities, but also with other local organizations serving families in need.
We thank you in advance for your partnership in our mission to build and strengthen communities through volunteer service.