Funding Cuts: Local Food Pantry to Reduce Pantry Services

In response to federal funding cuts, the Stepping Stones of Dunn County Board of Directors and Executive Director have made the challenging decision to reduce their Food Pantry Services. Beginning Monday, June 30th, the Food Pantry will no longer be open on Fridays, reducing weekly days open from 5 days to 4 days. Additionally, the number of monthly visits allowed per household is being reduced. Individuals using the pantry can visit once every 14 days instead of once every 7 days.

"The pantry is one of the foundations of Stepping Stones services, and making cuts to food available to homes was difficult, but in proportion to need," said Board  President Barbara Fagan. 

Stepping Stones has seen federal funding cuts of over $150,000, most of which impact its Food Pantry. In addition the the federal funding cuts, Stepping Stones is operating in a deficit while seeing an increased need for its services.

“This decision was not made lightly as it will impact over 5,000 unique individuals who utilize our pantry services annually. In order to keep our food pantry open, we needed to asses our current funding and find ways to save money," said Executive Director Corrisa Villeneuve. 

Stepping Stones is navigating a challenging financial time while its leadership team works diligently to find and apply for qualifying grants and look for other income opportunities. Community support is more crucial now than ever. Prior to federal funding cuts, Stepping Stones was already facing financial hardship.

In 2023, Stepping Stones opened its new 20-bed shelter, Cairn House, to meet the need of supporting individuals experiencing homelessness. This addition has allowed Stepping Stones to provide 10,000 nights of shelter to those in need, but it has also doubled its budget. Donations and other funding received are not keeping pace with the increased budget. 

Stepping Stones asks the community to Step Up and make a donation. Small or large, any donation makes a difference.

"We are seeking sustainable donations such as recurring monthly or annual donations. To put it into perspective, just $20 a month can provide food for 64 families using the pantry, and $50 a month can provide 600 meals to children facing food insecurity," explained Villeneuve. "Please, consider making a donation to help support your neighbors, friends, and family,".

Donations can be made online at SteppingStonesDc.org. For further questions, please visit their FAQ regarding these changes or reach out to Corrisa Villeneuve at c.villeneuve@steppingstonesdc.org. 

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