Recent ARCW Media Releases

28 January 2010
ARCW Food Pantry Distributes Record 400 Tons of Food in 2009

Milwaukee — The AIDS Resource Center of Wisconsin (ARCW) Food Pantry experienced a 9 percent increase in usage during 2009 providing 800,000 pounds of food for people with HIV. Through its statewide network of six food pantries, ARCW provided a record high 10,125 food orders to 1,417 HIV clients.

“The ARCW Food Pantry is one of the most important and appreciated services we provide to people with HIV and their families, and we are extremely proud that we have been able to meet the increasing demand for food during these tough economic times” said Roma Hanson, ARCW Vice President for Social Services. “Unfortunately, many HIV patients are often forced to make a choice between purchasing their medications or putting food on their family’s dinner table. Through our statewide system of food pantries, ARCW is working to make sure everyone with HIV has the nutritious and healthy food they need to keep or regain their health.”

Eating healthy food is an important part of successful HIV treatment as it combats the loss of lean body mass and muscle. A good diet is also important because many HIV patients are at an increased risk for high cholesterol and heart disease. In addition to fresh produce, quality meats and easy-to-prepare meals, ARCW food pantry clients may also consult with a nutritionist who is available to help put together meal plans and discuss better eating habits.

“At ARCW, we also know that many of our patients and clients are unable to leave their homes for a variety of reasons, so our social work case managers and food pantry volunteers across the state deliver food directly to their homes,” Hanson said. “Last year 20% of the food we provided was delivered directly to the homes of people with HIV.”

The ARCW Food Pantry has been recognized by the Hunger Task Force in Milwaukee with the highest four-star rating for the past six years for its commitment to providing nutritious foods and quality customer service with respect and dignity.

The ARCW Food Pantry is located in Eau Claire, Green Bay, Kenosha, La Crosse, Milwaukee and Wausau and is open every day, Monday through Friday.

To learn more about ARCW Food Pantries, please call 414-225-1515.