To promote healing after unrest: Feeding America to hand out free food to Sherman Park residents

MILWAUKEE -- Officials with Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin have announced a food distribution event scheduled for Tuesday, August 23rd in Milwaukee's Sherman Park neighborhood -- the site of unrest after the fatal officer-involved shooting of Sylville Smith on August 13th.

According to a statement from Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin -- this is an effort to heal wounds from the unrest. Feeding America officials say "studies continue to show a direct correlation between hunger and violence."

From 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, Feeding America, in conjunction with the Mary Ryan Boys & Girls Club located in Sherman Park will host a free mobile food pantry -- open to the entire Sherman Park community.

Charles McLimans, president and CEO of Feeding America will join volunteers to hand out food.

According to officials, the goal is to hand out 10,000 pounds of food, including fresh produce. The goal is to serve 200 to 300 families.

“We all have a part to play in finding solutions and helping our community heal. Good nutrition is not only critical for a healthy lifestyle and academic success for our young people, but studies also show direct links to behavioral patterns," McLimans said in the statement.

McLimans, in the statement, cited a study from March of 2016 which shows children who face hunger regularly have a greater risk of engaging in violence as adolescents and adults.

“Providing healthy, nutritious food is one part of the equation. We are also working with our many partners throughout the community to develop innovative programs to address the root causes of hunger and strengthen the pillars of household stability – food, health, housing and employment," McLimans said.

Food will be made available to Sherman Park residents on a first-come, first-served basis Tuesday afternoon. Families will receive products based on the family size.