On May 22nd, Woodward Community Media and its six radio stations, 105.7 WAPL, 95.9 KISS FM, Razor Wisconsin, 104.3 The Fuse, WHBY, and The Score WI, held its 7th annual Combat Hunger food and funds drive in partnership with Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin at Pick ‘n Save on N. Ballard Rd. in Appleton. Once again, the community showed overwhelming generosity, helping us give back to those who’ve served our country and sacrificed so much for our freedom.
All donations directly supported Veterans Village in Appleton, a facility dedicated to providing housing and support to local veterans. Thanks to community contributions, we collected 2,820 pounds of food and raised $11,670, resulting in an incredible 49,030 meals for veterans in need!
Adding to that total, Pick ‘N Save hosted a second brat fry over Memorial Day weekend, which is expected to push the final meal count beyond 50,000 once those totals are factored in.
Throughout the event, Woodward stations broadcasted live and encouraged shoppers and those who could to donate.
In the lead-up to the event, members of our station teams visited Veterans Village to tour the grounds and gain a deeper understanding of why we put on this event and who it benefits. While there, they learned that the complex features 48 fully renovated apartments ranging from 1 to 3 bedrooms, and is located within walking distance from the Veterans Clinic, the Fox Valley Veterans Council, and Tri County Dental – all vital resources for those living within the complexes.
One highlight of the tour was the Courtyard of Honor, completed in November, which pays tribute to service members from all six branches of the military.
Veterans Village offers much more than housing. Residents receive job search assistance, financial guidance, and the benefit of a supportive community made up of fellow veterans, providing them with connection, dignity, and a renewed sense of purpose.
The mission of Combat Hunger is simple but powerful: to offer not just food, but hope, to food-insecure veterans and their families.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin for their continued partnership and to our generous sponsors: TDS Fiber and Jack’s Maintenance. Together, we’re proud to make a difference, and we look forward to continuing the fight against veteran hunger in the years ahead!
