Healthy Minute: 'Eat Right When Money's Tight'

Have you ever found yourself choosing between buying groceries and paying for medicine at the end of the month? Or maybe you have found yourself skipping fruits and vegetables and opting for cheaper, less nutritious foods so you have money to pay your utility bill?

We believe these are choices no one should have to make. And that’s why we would like to make sure you are familiar with a benefit you may be eligible for called FoodShare. It’s a monthly benefit deposited on a debit-like card, the QUEST Card, to help with buying food. This can free up money for bills, medications and other necessities. It’s a completely free benefit to those who are eligible. Eligibility is based on income (see the chart below) and certain expenses; many people who are working or receiving Social Security are eligible.

Plus, claiming FoodShare benefits helps your local community. The USDA estimates that for every $5 spent in FoodShare benefits, about $9 circulates through local businesses and to our farmers. Claiming benefits you are eligible for is a great way to stretch your grocery budget while supporting your local community! 

Applying is fast, easy, and confidential. Feeding Wisconsin has a team of FoodShare Outreach Specialists who would be happy to assist you with the process. Your local FoodShare Specialist can be contacted by calling 715-496-3121.  If she is unavailable, you can always call the FoodShare Helpline toll-free at 1-877-366-3635 for assistance.

Submitted by: Maureen Wilson, FoodShare Specialist

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