Volunteer in FOCUS Food Pantry

FOCUS Neighborhood Meals provides meals to those in need

To identify those in South Wood County who experience food insecurity, provide them food and everyday essentials in an atmosphere that promotes dignity and respect, and to foster community engagement and cooperation in the everyday struggle against hunger.

The South Wood Emerging Pantry Shelf, otherwise knows as SWEPS, began in 1975 as a nonprofit organization to provide food to area residents in emergency situations. It has been generously supported by members of the community and the First Congregational Church of 311 2nd St S, Wisconsin Rapids, WI.  The organization grew to serving approximately 4000 people annually with volunteers provided by local churches.

In the fall of 2015, the SWEPS Board approved the reorganization and move of SWEPS in order to better meet the needs of food security in the South Wood County Area.  SWEPS opened their doors at 331 12th Ave S in Wisconsin Rapids.  The new location has ten times the available space as the previous location.