MILWAUKEE — Feeding America of Eastern Wisconsin said that 1 in 8 families across the state are currently struggling with hunger. 

Metcalfe Park hosts an annual block party, called Paint Activated. Metcalfe Park and Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin teamed up to host the event and bring a mobile food pantry to Milwaukee's 15 district.

Metcalfe Park Community Bridges is a community led organization founded by residents in Milwaukee. It provides resources to the community and focuses on five priority areas: Safety, civic engagement, intergenerational wealth, connectedness and cultural vibrancy, and health and wellness. 

The group's partnership with Feeding America helped bring fresh produce and food right to neighbors in The Metcalfe Park neighborhood. 

Andy Prom, with Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin, said the mobile food pantry is helping address hunger and the rising costs of food. 

“The goal of it is just to get as much food out into the community as possible,” said Prom. “We could just send out a bunch of cheap canned things, but we want to make sure we have fresh produce, meat and dairy. The things that people want in that are helpful for families.” 

Matt Stienstra is the director of strategic partnerships and programs and Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin. He said this event is important, especially with the rising costs of food and inflation. 

“Every summer childhood hunger peaks,” said Stienstra. “It’s really important that we can bring food to the people… Especially in areas of Milwaukee that are plagued with food deserts.”

Melody McCurtis is the senior organizer with Metcalfe Park. McCurtis said this block party is the perfect time provide resources all in one place.  

“These folks are coming to the community and meeting our folks where they’re at,” said McCurtis. 

She said coming together is what helps make the neighborhoods a better place. 

“When you’re a connected community you’re a strong community,” said McCurtis. 

Prom added that an important part of being a strong community is being a healthy one. 

“Food is so important and no one should be missing out on getting solid groceries into their houses,” he said. 

For more information on upcoming mobile food pantry events, click here.