December 2025

#1 SNAP Disruption

When the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits were suddenly disrupted during the recent government shutdown, hundreds of families across Marathon County faced immediate uncertainty about how they would access food.

In response, United Way of Marathon County’s Hunger Coalition acted quickly and decisively to ensure families did not fall through the cracks.

Within just one week, the coalition raised $12,600 in combined monetary and in-kind support. These rapid efforts were made possible by generous community partners, dedicated volunteers, and a shared commitment to making sure everyone in our county had enough to eat during a vulnerable time.

Community Donations Make an Immediate Impact

One of the largest contributions came from Rock Ridge Orchard, which donated 3,600 pounds of apples—a gift valued at $6,600. These apples were distributed to food pantries across the county and, due to high demand, were nearly gone by the next day.

Emergency Mobile Markets

The coalition also raised $6,000 in monetary donations, allowing them to host two last-minute Mobile Markets. These special distributions provided fresh produce and eggs to community members directly affected by the SNAP disruption, ensuring families had immediate access to healthy foods.

Supporting Local Partners

On Wednesday, Nov. 11, the Hunger Coalition supported the Nite Market at The Neighbors’ Place, offering fresh produce and eggs to guests.

Bulk Buy for Local Schools

Looking ahead, the coalition is planning a bulk food purchase for Edgar Elementary Schools. Buying in bulk stretches donated dollars further and allows the coalition to deliver a significant amount of food to students and families at the end of December.

Business-Led Food Drives

Local businesses also stepped up. Marathon Cheese Co. and Fleet Farm Wausau both organized food drives to support families during the disruption. The Hunger Coalition distributed these donations to food pantries throughout the county, and Fleet Farm’s drive will continue through the end of December.

Although SNAP benefits were reinstated on Friday, Nov. 7, the quick actions of partners, volunteers, and donors ensured families had access to nutritious food throughout the disruption. The Hunger Coalition is grateful for the outpouring of support and remains committed to responding swiftly whenever our community faces urgent needs.

Support the Hunger Coalition

#2 Turkey Trot Shatters Records, Raises $ 98,500

With incredible community support, our Hunger Coalition shattered records at its 16th Annual Turkey Trot this Thanksgiving!

This year’s event sold out with 2,413 runners and raised an amazing $98,500 for our community. These funds help feed local families and individuals all year long.

Thank you to everyone who ran, volunteered, donated, and cheered. Together, we’re making a real difference!

#3 Celebrate a Year of Impact!

Join us Thursday, Jan. 29 at Elks Lodge #248 as we honor the companies, donors, and volunteers who helped strengthen our community. A short annual meeting will take place—and don’t miss the big reveal of our sweepstakes winners!

Win Big in Our Sweepstakes!

When you give, you don’t just make an impact—you also get a chance to win amazing prizes!

If your company or organization runs a United Way workplace campaign, that’s the best way to contribute. If not, you can still join in and help us reach our goal.

Here’s How it Works:

Donate at least $1 per week ($52+ per year) during our campaign, and you’ll be automatically entered to win:

Grand Prize: $7,000 cash
2nd Place: $3,000 cash
3rd Place: $1,000 cash

NEW Donors receive double sweepstakes entries!

And that’s not all—check out the other great prizes here!

Prizes are not funded by United Way – they are funded by sponsors. We would like to thank our Sweepstakes Sponsors UMR, EO Johnson Business technologies, and The Dirks Group.

Together, we can create lasting change in our community. Every dollar makes a difference! This event is free, but registration is required.

#4 Workplace Campaign Countdown

As we near the end of the United Way workplace campaign, we want to remind all company champions to turn in your campaign envelope by December 9 at 5 p.m. to be entered for a chance to win a $250 Visa gift card.

This applies to both e-pledge submissions and physical campaign envelopes.

“Thank you to every champion who has stepped up to lead your company’s campaign and get those pledges in,” said Amanda Flannery, Director of Resource Development.

“Your commitment truly drives our mission forward—we couldn’t do it without you!”

Campaign Resources

#5 Summit League Members Pick CASA to receive $10,000

On Thursday, Nov. 6 our Summit League members faced a tough decision at the annual leadership giving celebration — choosing which local nonprofit program would receive $10,000 in funding.

Three incredible organizations took the stage, each with 10 minutes to share their story and vision for impact. After thoughtful presentations and heartfelt discussion, members cast their votes.

In the end, the $10,000 award went to CASA of Marathon County for its Criminal Court Child Advocacy Program — a pioneering initiative that extends the CASA model into criminal proceedings, ensuring that child victims are supported and heard throughout the often-complex legal process.

We also celebrate our runners-up:

Community Center of Hope – awarded $4,000

Boys & Girls Club of the Wausau Area – awarded $1,000

At the event, we were also honored to recognize Mary Jo Johnson and Bruce Lamont with the Tocqueville Society Award for their outstanding philanthropic leadership and lasting impact on our community.

Calendar of Events

Save the Date

Thursday, January 29: End of Year Celebration!

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