Moola for Milk campaign kicks off

The Salvation Army in St Croix and Pierce counties will coordinate its annual “Moola for Milk” campaign during the month of September. Churches and businesses will be asked to accept donations earmarked to fund the milk coupons.

The need for food assistance in St. Croix and Pierce counties has continued to increase during the recent economic downturn. Many families who have been self sufficient in the past now need assistance because of lay-offs or restricted hours. Due to this increased need, the total value of milk coupons distributed in St. Croix and Pierce counties tripled to more than $40,000 over the past year.

Coupons redeemable for one gallon of milk at local grocery stores are distributed in two ways. Some are issued to families who need the help of their community food pantry. Others are sent home weekly with children whose families qualify for the Back Pack Program. These back packs are filled with kid-friendly foods every Friday morning and then dropped off at schools to be sent home with children for the weekend. The program has been a huge success with teachers, principals, and parents who see an improvement in the academic performance of children when their weekend nutritional needs are met.

Look for the Dancing Cow logos on empty gallon milk jugs at area churches or on the familiar counter kettles displayed at some businesses. A direct contribution can be sent to the Salvation Army, c/o Grace Place at 203 Church Hill Road, Somerset, WI 54025. Just write “Moola for Milk” in the memo portion of the check to ensure that the donation will help to fund the program.

Tags: st croix, communities, food