The Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction’s Bureau of School Nutrition recently notified our District of some important information regarding the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), known in Wisconsin as FoodShare. Due to the ongoing federal government shutdown, November FoodShare payments may be delayed. We understand that this uncertainty can cause stress for families, and we want to provide clarity and reassurance about how this affects school meals as well as other community resources for families that may be in need.
Students who are eligible for free meals based on their household’s participation in FoodShare will continue to be eligible for free meals served through the USDA school nutrition programs. When a student is certified for free or reduced-price meals, that eligibility remains valid for the entire school year and up to 30 operating days into the next school year, regardless of any change in household circumstances. In short, if your child currently qualifies for free or reduced-price meals, their school meal eligibility will not be interrupted even if FoodShare benefits are delayed.
You can read more about FoodShare and program updates on the Wisconsin Department of Health Services website: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/foodshare/index.htm.
Local and School-Based Support
If your household is experiencing food insecurity or concerns about meeting food needs, please know there are resources available:
Durand Area Food Pantry – 114 E Main St., Durand, WI 54736
Open Wednesdays 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. and Thursdays 1:00–4:00 p.m.
Phone: 715-672-3203
Website: durandareafoodpantry.orgPepin County Food Pantry – Eastside Apartments, 701 Dunn St., Pepin, WI 54759
Typically open Wednesdays 4:00–5:00 p.m.2-1-1 Wisconsin – Dial 211 or visit
for information on additional food, housing, and family resources across the region.
If you would like to discuss school or community support options, please reach out to a member of our Pupil Services Team:
You can also reach our department by phone at 715-672-8921.
Our district also has school-based options available to assist students in need, as we never want any child to go hungry. Please don’t hesitate to contact our Pupil Services Team if your child could benefit from additional food support.
We understand that uncertainty can create challenges for families. Please know that your child’s access to school meals remains protected, and we are here to help connect families to the resources and supports they need.
Thank you for your continued partnership and care for our students and community.
Sincerely,
Ryan Nelson
District Administrator
Durand-Arkansaw School District