Fests Feed initiative: Save all summer long at festivals when you donate non-perishable food

MILWAUKEE -- It wouldn't be summer in Milwaukee without a different festival every weekend. Some days, you can get in for free and help feed the hungry.

Bring a can and drop it in the bin -- that's what the Hunger Task Force and members of the United Ethnic Festivals are asking you to do this summer.

"Summer is literally at its all-time high in the month of August for children here in Milwaukee," said Sherrie Tussler, Hunger Task Force executive director.

This effort is called the “The Fests Feed Milwaukee” initiative.

"Each of the festivals donates a free entrance period while asking for donations of non-perishable food items," said Dan Pena with United Ethnic Festivals.

The food goes to the Hunger Task Force and they distribute it to local food pantries. In 2015, the effort brought in more than 146,000 pounds of food. This year, the hope is 160,000 pounds.

Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett issued a proclamation recognizing the goal.

"Instead of bringing one can, bring two. It's really simple for people to do," said Tussler.

School is out during the summer, so the focus is on food for kids -- think breakfast cereal and mac and cheese.

"We're going to see a lot of kids out on the street, a lot of kids in parks -- and our responsibility is to feed them and make sure they are healthy and safe and ready to go back to school in the fall," said Tussler.

The first festival we have coming up is PrideFest and that is on June 10th. On the 11th and 12th, if you bring four or more canned items, you get two admission tickets for the price of one.