Important Information for Our Community
We understand that many families in our community rely on SNAP benefits for groceries. Due to the ongoing federal government shutdown, there may be delays or disruptions to benefits in November.
At this time, Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) has advised that even if the shutdown ends before November, benefits will not arrive on their regular schedule. WI WIC is currently available and will remain available for November Benefits. Clients can get updates and information on Wisconsin's FoodShare News for Members page.
While we don't have control over the shutdown, we want to make sure you know where to find help. Stop in for a printed list of food pantries or to use our 211 kiosk. We also have public computers, printers, and fax machines if you need to access or submit any forms.
Community Food Resources
The City of Janesville has compiled a list of food pantries and community meals.
La ciudad de Janesville ha compilado una lista de despensas de alimentos y comidas comunitarias.
Rock County Aging and Disability Resource Center Nutrition Program created this more comprehensive 2025 Food Resources Guide.
Emergency Food Drive
NAMI Rock County is collecting food items, grocery gift cards, and monetary donations to shop and put meal kits together. Hedberg Public Library is partnering as a collection site during regular library hours beginning October 30.
Some of the most need items include:
- canned vegetables, beans, and soups
- rice, pasta, bread, cereal, and oatmeal
- peanut butter and canned protein
Items may also be dropped off to NAMI Rock County at 120 N Crosby Ave, Suite 11, 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. For more information, visit namirockcounty.org or call 608-743-9828.
211 United Way Blackhawk Region
Any Wisconsinite who needs additional food or infant formula for their house or family can reach out to 211 for information and referrals to local services. Anyone can use 211 to get help by:
- Dialing 211 or 877-947-2211.
- Visiting their website at liveunitedbr.org/call-211. Through the website, people can search for services or chat with someone online who can help.
- Texting their ZIP code to 89821
- Stopping in to use the library's 211 Kiosk
Other Opportunities to Give
Several local grocery stores offer opportunities to provide assistance to those in need.
- Festival Foods and Sentry allow customers to make a donation at checkout year-round that supports ECHO, Inc.
- Woodman's has a holiday program that lets customers make donations in November and December to a select food pantry - the 2025 beneficiary is ECHO, Inc.
- Hy-Vee works closely with SecondHarvest, which gives to ECHO, Inc. and the Salvation Army.