Madison, WI – The Wisconsin Grocers Association (WGA) recognizes that the unprecedented chaos in the administering of the FoodShare program is causing a lot of concern and misinformation. Some of the information, while well-intentioned, may need further explanation. On behalf of Wisconsin’s grocers, WGA would like to clarify a crucial point:
The state of Wisconsin has affirmed grocers are accepting FoodShare. FoodShare benefits remain active and usable at authorized retailers across the state. QUEST cards are being accepted, and grocers are working hard to ensure smooth transactions and respectful service. WGA has received only stories of compassion, flexibility, and community support.
“Our members are on the front lines every day,” Mike Semmann, President/CEO of the Wisconsin Grocers Association (WGA), said. “They are providing a service to their communities. They are helping families, calming fears, and making sure no one goes without food. That’s the reality.”
“Grocers did not need an executive order to do the right thing,” Semmann added. “They’ve been doing it all along. From helping seniors navigate benefits to donating to food banks, Wisconsin grocers are stepping up, not stepping back despite the continued court action and funding questions.”
In the face of uncertainty caused by the federal government shutdown, Wisconsin grocers have done everything in their power to minimize the impact this has had on the communities they serve, including donating hundreds of thousands of meals to their partner food banks.
The WGA encourages FoodShare members to continue shopping with confidence and to reach out to store staff if they have questions. Anyone experiencing issues can contact the Wisconsin Consumer Protection Hotline at (800) 422-7128 or email DATCPHotline@wi.gov.
For additional food resources, Wisconsinites can dial 211 or visit 211wisconsin.communityos.org.
ABOUT THE WISCONSIN GROCERS ASSOCIATION (WGA)
The Wisconsin Grocers Association (WGA) is a non-profit trade association established in 1900 to represent independent grocers and grocery chains, warehouses and brokers, vendors, suppliers, and manufacturers before all levels of government. The WGA provides educational and networking opportunities, leadership training, public affairs, and compliance information for its membership.
WGA and its membership have significant economic impact in the state of Wisconsin. The WGA represents nearly 350 independent grocers with multiple locations across the state, more than 200 retail grocery chain stores, warehouses and distributors, convenience stores, food brokers and suppliers. Wisconsin grocers employ over 30,000 people with over $1 billion in payroll and generate more than $12 billion in annual sales in Wisconsin resulting in approximately $800 million in state sales tax revenue (data provided by The Food Institute).
