RAFP highlights growth in demand, volunteer support

According to a press release, the Rhinelander Area Food Pantry (RAFP) marked its 20th year of service in 2025 and reported continued growth in demand for its programs. The release highlights the role of volunteers, noting that an average of 175 volunteers contribute more than 1,500 hours each month. In the past year, 368 volunteers donated a combined 19,647 hours.

The release states that RAFP supported more than 2,300 individuals experiencing food insecurity in 2025 and provided an additional 37,000 meals to children and teens through its Hodag Kids programs. RAFP reported receiving 951,477 pounds of food from purchased, donated, in‑kind and rescued sources, distributing 708,966 pounds — equivalent to about 590,000 meals — through grocery shopping, online ordering, home delivery, transit assistance and its off‑site pantry.

The organization also reported 79,329 pounds of food distributed through its children’s programs, 43,782 pounds shared with other community organizations and 93,700 pounds diverted to Wild Instincts and local farmers when items did not meet pantry standards.

According to the release, RAFP saw a 54 percent increase in unduplicated individuals registered over the past two years and 3,200 more annual shopping visits. In 2025, 2,390 individuals and 1,104 households accessed pantry services, accounting for 8,684 household shopping visits.

The release also notes that RAFP’s garden produced 2,321 pounds of organic produce valued at $9,285, with additional donations from local gardeners and the Wisconsin Food Hub.

Executive Director Courtney Smith thanked supporters in the report, stating, “Your generosity and commitment fuel our mission. Thank you for supporting RAFP. Thank you for believing in this work and in one another.”

The release includes RAFP’s financial summary for fiscal year 2025, reporting that 52 percent of revenue came from donations, 22 percent from fundraising, 13 percent from grants and 13 percent from contract income. The pantry reported allocating 60 percent of expenses to services, 30 percent to food, 8 percent to administration and 2 percent to fundraising.

The report also lists members of the organization’s board of directors and operations committee, as well as RAFP’s mission to achieve food security through collaboration, advocacy, resource sharing and increased public awareness.