Governmental Support for BPNN Continues – and It’s Vital

Bob Kasieta, Board President

President Kennedy once said, “If a free society cannot help the many who are poor, it cannot save the few who are rich.” Never has the divide between rich and poor been larger. Never has the need been greater. And never has it been more essential for government to do what it alone can do – close the gap between need and private charitable efforts.

There is sometimes legitimate frustration with government. We begin another election cycle, where cynics will receive ample ammunition to disparage Democracy. Quoting another president, Barack Obama observed that “cynicism is the saddest form of wisdom.” But our government - federal, state, and local - is all of us. It protects us, builds and maintains roads, provides clean water, manages waste, and performs thousands of other functions requiring collective effort.

BPNN is blessed with government support. Dane County owns our building and leases it to us for a modest $20 per year. Dane County also recently purchased a truck for BPNN to permit expanded food recovery. The State of Wisconsin funded coolers and freezers. The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP), a federal initiative, provides important food pantry inventory. We have also enjoyed financial support from the Cities of Verona and Fitchburg. We benefit from numerous other examples of federal, state, and local backing.

Many elected officials come to BPNN to witness what we do and to lend support. We’ve enjoyed visits from Governor Tony Evers many times, as well as Congressman Mark Pocan, State Representative Mike Bare, Dane County Executive Joe Parisi, Verona Mayor Luke Diaz, Fitchburg Mayor Julia Arata-Fratta, Town of Verona Chair Mark Geller, and many city council and town board members.

These fine, selfless public servants deserve credit and thanks. If you see them, please express appreciation for their commitment to BPNN. They exemplify what is best about government. They do what is necessary and right, not with fanfare, not seeking publicity, but for the simple reason that helping neighbors is a universal obligation of good people. We are grateful. One final presidential quote, this from Ronald Reagan, who captured the spirit of these public servants by observing, “There is no limit to what you can do if you don’t mind who gets the credit.”

Bob

Grant Funding Provides Critical Financial Support

BPNN is the grateful beneficiary of several major grants in recent weeks. These funds are critical to providing financial support to purchase food and supplies and keep the lights on. Thank you, Otto Bremer Trust, Epic Systems, City of Verona, City of Fitchburg, Whole Foods, and the Evjue Foundation for sharing our mission to fight poverty and end hunger.

September is Hunger Action Month

When you “Give A Little … You Change a Lot.” This Hunger Action Month, consider joining the ranks of 100+ other BPNN supporters who are making an ongoing monthly contribution ranging from $10-$500. Repeating gifts help us create financial stability throughout the year and make bulk purchases at the best prices. Just $150 per month feeds a family for 3 months. It’s easy to do, just click the "Make A Donation," select an amount, and check the monthly donation box.

MAKE A DONATION

Fall Food Drives Stock the Pantry for the Holidays

Help us stock the pantry in time for the holidays by organizing a food drive for your business or community group. Consider creating teams – work groups, school classes, or grades – for a friendly competition to encourage donations. Have your group “cast votes” with food items to pick anything from who will get a “pie in the face” to choosing the next team building outing activity or school field trip. Get More Food Drive Tips

... And check out our list of "Most Needed Items" below

Barbara O’Connell Takes on Produce Coordination

Barbara has joined the BPNN Leadership Team as the Produce Coordinator. She is responsible for inventory, supplies, vendor and volunteer coordination, and maintenance of the Produce Department. Her leadership skills and drive will continue our long tradition of providing healthy and appealing produce and guide the department through future growth. Welcome Barbara!

Volunteer Groups Make a Big Impact

This summer, teams from businesses, faith groups, youth sports, and local government rolled up their sleeves to make an impact. They tackled a variety of tasks – everything from washing windows to restocking the pantry. We are grateful for businesses and organizations that see the value of serving the greater community. Group volunteering is great for team building and helping meet the needs of the community! Have a group that would like to volunteer together? Learn More

Produce

Pop-Up Pantry

Friday, Sept 1

3-5pm

at Badger Prairie Needs Network

Bring your bags and baskets to fill up with our bounty of fall produce.

SAVE THE DATE: Developing an Effective Job Search Seminar

This fall career coach Frank Poggio will lead a 3-part series to help job seekers find employment and advance in their careers. Workshops include creating a job search plan, interview tools, and working in a freelance or contractor economy. Register for one workshop or all three by emailing info@bpnn.org. More info will be posted soon. Workshops will be held in the Kasieta Center at Badger Prairie Needs Network.

> Creating a Job Search Plan

Tuesday, Sept. 19 from 6-8pm

> How to Sell Yourself: From Resume to Interview

Tuesday, Nov. 14 from 6-8pm

> The Gig Economy: Risks & Rewards

Tuesday, Dec. 5 from 6-8pm

Community Meal Fall Schedule

Saturdays from 11:30am-12:45pm on the following dates:

Sept. 16, Oct 7 & 21, Nov. 4 & 18

All welcome, no registration required!

Volunteer Orientation

Spots are filling fast! Several openings still available for the following session:

Thursdays, Sept. 7, 14, 21 & 28 from 1:30-3pm

Saturdays, Sept 9 & 23 from 9-10:30am

SAVE THE DATE: Holiday Volunteer Open House

Sunday, Dec. 3 from 4 - 6pm

Canned meat & fish

White rice

Canned protein beans such as black, pinto, & kidney

Canned fruit

Cereal

Cooking oil

Menstrual pads

Bar soap

Baby Wipes

Bring donations to the Volunteer Entrance during pantry hours.

Donations of personal care items such as baby wipes, dental care, bar soap and feminine hygiene products can be directly shipped to us through our Amazon Wish List.

FOOD PANTRY HOURS

Tuesday: 10a-Noon • Wednesday: 6-8p • Thursday: 10a-6:30p

Friday: 10a-Noon • Saturday: 10a-12:30p

Badger Prairie Needs Network

1200 E. Verona Avenue,

Verona, WI 53593

(608) 848-2499