FoodShare (ACCESS)

FoodShare is a nutrition assistance program that helps people purchase healthy foods. Eligibility is determined based upon your income and household size. Household and medical expenses may also be taken into account.

Most FoodShare applicants and recipients are categorically eligible for FoodShare, meaning liquid assets like cars and houses are not a factor in eligibility. However, if someone is at or above 200% of the Federal Poverty Level, assets will need to be verified.

Individuals between the ages of 18 and 49 who do not have children and do not have a documented disability are subject to FoodShare time limits based on a work requirement.

There are three ways to meet the work requirement:

• Work at least 80 hours each month, or
• Take part in an allowable work program such as FSET, Wisconsin Works (W-2) or certain programs under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) at least 80 hours each month, or
• Both work and take part in an allowable work program for a combined total of at least 80 hours each month.

If an individual does not meet the work requirement, only 3 months of FoodShare benefits will be available in one 36-month (3 year) period until either 1) the work requirement is met, 2) an exemption is met, or 3) the 36-month period has passed.

Specific exemptions such as homelessness or disability are available for eligible individuals. Contact a Hunger Task Force FoodShare Outreach member to learn more about how to apply for FoodShare benefits and whether you may qualify for any exemptions.

Hunger Task Force Can Help (ACCESS)

Hunger Task Force FoodShare Assistants are available to help you apply for FoodShare and other benefits, report changes to your situation, resolving issues and answering any questions you may have about benefits, renewals, contacting the state and more.

If you would like to speak to a Hunger Task Force team member over the phone, please call us at 414-897-0460 and ask to speak with a member of the FoodShare Outreach team.

To speak directly with a state worker about your case, call 1-888-947-6583.

There are also three FoodShare Outreach Locations in Milwaukee, where Hunger Task Force staff are on hand to help answer your FoodShare questions in person.