SSM Health has donated $5,000 to the Broken Bread Food Pantry, located in downtown Fond du Lac, as it coordinates the distribution on “saved” food and other food staples, to approximately 600 individuals. The food provided is donated by local businesses, community organizations, and individuals.

The Broken Bread Food Pantry was founded on January 31, 1991, as a ministry of the Fond du Lac Cathedral to those in need throughout our community. It continues to growth, most recently becoming a distribution partner in the Five to Thrive program, and as vaccination clinic site with the Fond du Lac County Health Department.

Operated by volunteers and supported by local donations, the pantry provides essential food items to individuals and families in need.

“To advance public health, Broken Bread is enhancing the nutritional quality of the food items available in our pantry for our guests,” according to Ann Culver, Broken Bread operations manager. “By offering fresh vegetables and fruits, individuals can prepare healthier meals at home. For instance, opting for fresh potatoes instead of dehydrated ones is a more beneficial choice.”

The donation was presented to Helen Carew, Broken Bread board member/volunteer by Laura Nakielski, SSM Health Greater Fond du Lac senior community health specialist.

“This gift continues to build upon our already strong partnership as our hospital donates ‘saved food’ each week, which is then repackaged and redistributed,” according to Nakielski. “The work that Broken Bread and its team and volunteers do to provide these valuable food items is complemented with the education that also unfolds so guests are empowered to prepare cost-effective, nutritionally rich meals for their families.”

In 2024, SSM Health Greater Fond du Lac’s community benefit ministry totaled more than $568,000 across the communities it serves. This investment helps ensure access to health care for patients who are uninsured or underinsured, train the next generation of health professionals to care for those in need, and fund programs to address the most pressing health needs of our communities.

Laura Nakielski (right), SSM Health Greater Fond du Lac senior community health specialist, present a $5,000 donation to Helen Carew, Broken Bread board member/volunteer.