WASHINGTON — A federal program that has given Wisconsinites extra FoodShare benefits is coming to an end next month, the state’s Department of Health Services said.
The program, enacted during the COVID-19 pandemic, has provided extra benefits separate from regular monthly FoodShare benefits but is ending at the end of February following the passage of the federal 2023 appropriations package, DHS said.
According to the agency, an average of around $80 million each month has helped roughly 400,000 Wisconsin households pay for food during a time when food prices are up due to inflation.
Each enrolled household is receiving at least $95 per month extra; some have gotten more to bring the total they receive to the maximum monthly benefit for the number of people in their household.
In a news release, DHS deputy secretary Deb Standridge said without the additional money, food banks, which have already been stretched thin, will likely need extra support.
“These additional funds provided to eligible Wisconsinites because of COVID-19 have made a real difference,” Standridge said. “With Congress deciding to end these federal funds, community support for local resources like food pantries and food banks will be more important than ever.”
FoodShare members will get a letter later this month with more information about the change. To learn more, click or tap here.
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