Wrapping Up the 2025 Hunger Relief Federation Summit

Hunger Task Force is the founding member of the Hunger Relief Federation, which is a statewide association of independent food banks and food pantries. Over 115 anti-hunger advocates gathered October 2–3, 2025, in Green Bay, WI, for the annual Hunger Relief Federation Summit. Representing 61 organizations across 32 Wisconsin counties – nearly half the state – attendees came together to share knowledge, strengthen connections and advance strategies to combat food insecurity in their communities.

“It’s so valuable to sit down and have real, back-and-forth conversations,” shared Missie Beaber, Mission Director at Project Concern. “The breakout sessions were especially great, being able to say, ‘Here’s what I’m struggling with,’ and having someone respond, ‘I’ve been where you are,’ was incredibly meaningful. I feel encouraged, inspired and energized to get back out there and keep doing what we do.”

The 2025 Summit featured over 30 speakers, presenters, panelists and facilitators, offering a mix of keynotes, panels and structured breakout sessions designed to foster meaningful dialogue. Strategic presentations covered topics from FoodShare advocacy to donor stewardship to quality intake practices, while panel discussions explored thoughtful nutrition education, supply chain coordination and grassroots food procurement strategies.

The Summit provided a space for reflection, learning, and action. Matt King, CEO of Hunger Task Force, noted, “Bringing together state leaders, grassroots organizations and advocates in one space reminds us of the power of collective effort. The insights, collaboration, and shared commitment witnessed over these two days will continue to strengthen Wisconsin’s anti-hunger work well into the future.”

Following feedback from previous years, this year’s event placed an intentional focus on small group discussions, giving attendees the chance to share best practices, tackle challenges like succession planning, and explore changes in federal and state funding that affect pantries and local programs. Special guests included representatives from the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection, providing additional perspective on state-level initiatives and resources.

“As a member of the Hunger Relief Federation, this Summit is always such a great resource for connecting with peers doing the same important work of serving our neighbors,” said Mike Egly, Director of Program Services at The FOOD Pantry Serving Waukesha County. “The Federation brings together voices and expertise from so many different areas, and being here reminds me that there’s a powerful network working behind the scenes to keep things moving forward. No matter what happens at the federal or state level, we’re going to keep feeding people, and doing the right thing.”

Attendees left equipped with new strategies, renewed energy and a deepened sense of community.

“The 2025 Summit was a profound reminder that each individual, partner organization and agency isn’t alone in the work we do to address food insecurity across Wisconsin,” said Mark Lisowski, Hunger Relief Federation Organizer at Hunger Task Force. “I’m so appreciative of this opportunity to coalesce around our common goal of ending hunger and recognize the role each Federation member has in accomplishing that goal.”

Following the success of the 2024 Summit, which was the first in-person gathering since before the pandemic, the success of the 2025 Summit confirmed that this is now an anticipated annual tradition and an essential opportunity for Federation members, partners and stakeholders to unite, share solutions and advance Wisconsin’s mission to end hunger.

Hunger Task Force is Milwaukee’s Free & Local food bank and Wisconsin’s anti-hunger leader. The organization’s core values are Dignity, Justice, Equity, Compassion and Stewardship. Hunger Task Force feeds people today by providing healthy and culturally appropriate food to hungry children, families and seniors in the community absolutely free of charge. Hunger Task Force also works to end future hunger by advocating for strong public policies and nutrition programs at the local, state and federal level.