Feed the Body, Feed the Soul

2023 information coming soon

Working together to
drive change

Oshkosh Corporation is committed to help fight poverty. That starts right at home. Thanks to help from team members and community members, we’re working together to drive change. Started in Northeast Wisconsin in 2017, Feed the Body, Feed the Soul brings together nearly 1,000 volunteers to pack food staples for those in need while feeding the soul with live music.

Event Overview

Each year, Oshkosh team members and community members come together to help package staple food products provided to pantries in Northeast Wisconsin. One out of eight people don't have enough to eat in Northeast Wisconsin, and one in five are children who go to bed hungry each night.

Our partner, Feeding America, secures the product purchased by generous sponsors and helps distribute to the pantries. Our energetic volunteers are fueled by live music while giving their time and talent to make an impact on those in need. For that, we are grateful.

Feed the Body, Feed the Soul has become a staple event for us, and we hope we see all of you at our event in September.

I love to volunteer for Feed the Body, Feed the Soul because it's giving back and taking care of families right in our area. The fun music is an added bonus that keeps me coming back!”

Devon Hudak, Executive Assistant, ARC Contracting

With the proceeds from the Feed the Body, Feed the Soul event, our food pantry partners have been able to provide a consistent offering of nutritious food staples to families facing hunger.”

Liz Wollenberg, Vice President of Northeastern Wisconsin, Feeding America

I am in awe of the volunteers who come out every year to help us pack staple food items. The commitment of volunteers making a difference in our community is truly humbling.”

Jodie Larsen, Vice President of Community Engagement

Volunteering means giving back to a cause that truly betters the people and communities it serves. Feed the Body, Feed the Soul does just that.”

Kelly Zanders, Executive Assistant

Schedule

Schedule typically runs
from 7:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M.
in two-hour shifts:

Shift 1: 7:00 A.M. – 9:00 A.M.
Shift 2: 9:00 A.M. – 11:00 A.M.
Shift 3: 11:00 A.M. – 1:00 P.M.
Shift 4: 1:00 P.M. – 3:00 P.M.
Shift 5: 3:00 P.M. – 5:00 P.M.
Shift 6: 5:00 P.M. – 7:00 P.M.

Two images of male volunteers at the Feed the Body, Feed the Soul event packing rice

Making an impact

The hard work put in by hundreds of volunteers positively affects hundreds of Wisconsin families in need. These staple food items get taken directly to Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin’s network pantry partners.

“We get several things like rice, beans and pasta,” says Marty Lee, Executive Director of Waushara County Food Pantry. “We’ve been a beneficiary of this event for years, and it makes a huge difference. This year with the supply chain issues these items were essential.”

When someone turns to a place like the Waushara County Food Pantry for help, the goal is to make sure that their situation doesn’t deter them from a healthy diet. Part of maintaining a healthy diet is having access to well-rounded meals. Many times, however, items that are donated to pantries are leftover canned goods from someone’s pantry. While those items are needed, the product donated through the Feed the Body, Feed the Soul packing event ensures that there aren’t any gaps on the dinner plate. “This allows us to give out more food items that can create a well-rounded meal for someone,” explains Marty.

Group photo of people at the 2021 Feed the Body, Feed the Soul event

FAQs

How do I register?

Registration is done through SignUpGenius. More information for our 2023 event coming soon.

Are children able to participate?

Because of the work that is to be done, we ask they be 10 years of age or older to participate.

What should I wear to the event?

This is a packing event, so please wear comfortable clothes and shoes. No open toe shoes, hanging jewelry or anything that may fall into the product we are packing. If you have long hair, please bring a hair tie to contain. Other equipment such as hairnet, gloves and aprons will be provided at the event. Volunteers will receive a complimentary Feed the Body, Feed the Soul t-shirt that can be worn at the event.

What should I bring?

Everything you need will be provided and we recommend that you leave all valuables behind as you will not be able to use them while packing.

Can I take photos?

There will be a photo area set up for you to grab a photo of your team. We will also be taking photos during the event. If you do not wish to be photographed, please let our team know upon arrival.

When is the date set?

Typically Feed the Body, Feed the Soul occurs in the fall. Look for dates to be announced early in the calendar year.

Does this work require heavy lifting?

There are some tasks that require lifting of boxes. If you are unable to do so, just let your table know so we can assign you a task that does not require heavy lifting.

Can I sit while volunteering?

There are some accommodations we can make for you to sit during the packing event, however many of the tasks involve some walking and standing. While we would love to have everyone come, if you have difficulty standing or walking within a two-hour period, it may be best for you look for other opportunities to participate.

What if I am not feeling well?

While we would love to have you pack with us, if you are feeling ill, please stay home, we want to keep everyone safe.

What safety protocols are in place?

At all times, we take your safety seriously. We eliminate trip hazards, safe walkways and even look to follow CDC guidance on illnesses. However, we also depend on you to watch out for your neighbors and yourself as we do have equipment in the area to assist with the packing process. A first aid representative is on hand for all shifts in case you need them. Watch for updates on safety procedures in our pre-event communications.