Milwaukee Confronts Growing Food Insecurity as Grocery Stores Close, Community Steps In

Milwaukee residents are facing increasing challenges in accessing affordable, healthy food as several grocery stores have closed across the city in the past year, particularly on the North and Northwest Sides. These closures, including Pick ‘n Saves, Aldi, Sentry, Walgreens, and even a Walmart, have prompted a surge in community-led efforts to address the growing food insecurity crisis. Organizations are working to ensure Milwaukeeans have access to healthy food and are treated with dignity and respect.

The Rise of “Food Apartheid”

Melody McCurtis, deputy director and lead organizer of Metcalfe Park Community Bridges, describes the situation as more than just a “food desert”—it’s a “food apartheid.” This highlights systemic inequities in access to nutritious food. Metcalfe Park Community Bridges was among the first organizations to respond to the crisis.

Community Response to the Pick ‘n Save Closure

In July 2025, after the announcement of the Pick ‘n Save closure at 2355 N. 35th St., McCurtis and dozens of concerned residents gathered at Metcalfe Park Community Bridges for an emergency town hall meeting. The community organized a march and rally to advocate for the store to remain open, but ultimately regrouped to find alternative solutions.

Direct Food Access Initiatives

Metcalfe Park Community Bridges has partnered with organizations like Tricklebee Cafe and FEED MKE to establish five community fridges on the city’s North Side, providing direct access to food for those in need. The organization is likewise advocating for “people-first legislation,” including a city ordinance requiring grocers and pharmacies to provide 90 days’ notice before closing – mirroring a similar federal law, the WARN Act.

Hunger Task Force Mobile Market Expands Reach

The Hunger Task Force, serving Wisconsin since 1974, has expanded its Mobile Market program to reach communities impacted by grocery store closures. The Mobile Market makes approximately 10 stops per week, offering fresh produce, bread, eggs, dairy, and meat at a 25% discount. A new stop was established at the former Metcalfe Park Pick ‘n Save location in August 2025, offering Piggly Wiggly groceries to community members. The market will continue to return to Metcalfe Park once a month, and visits other locations such as McGovern Park and Washington Park senior centers.

African American Roundtable Focuses on Long-Term Solutions

The African American Roundtable is training resident leaders to develop a food access campaign for the Northwest Side. The campaign aims to improve equitable access to fresh, healthy, and culturally relevant food, with a focus on establishing more local grocery stores and farmers markets, as well as accessible community gardens and nutrition education.

Legislative Efforts for Greater Notice

State Rep. Margaret Arney is championing a bill that would require major grocery stores and pharmacies to provide advance notice before closing, aligning state policy with Milwaukee’s existing ordinance 251676. Arney emphasizes that effective policy starts at the local level.

Get Involved

To learn more or get involved:

• Metcalfe Park Community Bridges: email [email protected] or follow Metcalfe Park Community Bridges.
• African American Roundtable: Visit aartmke.org or email [email protected].

Rep. Arney stresses the importance of voting to elect decision-makers who prioritize food security.