SSM Health recently awarded a $5,000 community health gift to the Waupun Food Pantry to help address food insecurity. and support the health and well-being of individuals and families in the Waupun and Alto communities. The gift was awarded through SSM Health’s Community Health Funding Request program.
Food insecurity continues to impact families throughout Wisconsin and across the nation. Access to healthy food is a critical social determinant of health that affects overall wellness, chronic disease management, and quality of life.
The Waupun Food Pantry serves an average of 130 families, representing approximately 360 individuals, and provides a reliable food source for those experiencing food insecurity or challenges related to personal health or socioeconomic circumstances.
“This investment reflects SSM Health’s commitment to improving community health beyond the walls of our hospitals,” according to Nicole Gill, Vice President, Clinical and Operations Administrator, SSM Health Waupun Memorial Hospital & SSM Health Ripon Community Hospital. “Access to nutritious food is fundamental to good health, and we are grateful for the important work the Waupun Food Pantry does every day to support our neighbors. Through partnerships like this, we can help address the root causes that impact health and strengthen the communities we serve.”
The funding will be used to purchase protein-rich food items, including chicken, hot dogs, deli meats and tuna, as well as personal care products such as toothpaste and shampoo. Pantry leaders identified these items as essential needs that support both nutrition and overall health for individuals and families seeking assistance.
The gift was presented to Terri Respalje, manager of the Waupun Food Pantry. “We continue to see strong demand for our services,” she shares. “This funding will help us provide nutritious food and everyday essentials to the families, older adults and individuals who depend on our pantry. We’re grateful for SSM Health’s support and its commitment to helping meet critical needs in our community.”
Terri Respalje (right), manager of the Waupun Food Pantry, accepts a $5,000 Community Health grant from SSM Health to support food insecurity initiatives in the Waupun area from Nicole Gill and Alex Gago, SSM Health Waupun Memorial Hospital leaders.
Date posted: September 14, 2026