The Hodag Food Wagon returns July 6 to the Rhinelander District Library lawn, distributing free bags of food to families with children 4-6 p.m.

For the Star Journal                       

RHINELANDER – The Hodag Food Wagon is back this summer with new hours and improved meal bags. Beginning Thursday, July 6 and subsequent Thursdays through Aug. 24, the Hodag Food Wagon will set up outside the Rhinelander District Library. As a response to a recent community survey, the Hodag Food Wagon will now be available during evening hours, 4-6 p.m. 

The Hodag Food Wagon is open and free to all children and youth with the goal of providing a little extra nutritional support during the summer when food insecurity for kids can increase.

“Our goal is to give families with kids a little boost during the summer,” said Courtney Smith, Rhinelander Area Food Pantry associate executive director.  “The bags contain healthy, kid-friendly foods. We are excited to host new hours to reach more kids.”

Smith said partnering with the Rhinelander District Library is a good fit.

“Kids can participate in the summer reading programs and access the services of the library,” said Smith.

The Hodag Food Wagon is a community effort made possible through partnerships between the Rhinelander Area Food Pantry, the YMCA of the Northwoods, the UW Extension FoodWIse program and the library. Along with the bags, FoodWIse will provide nutrition education and recipes.

The Hodag Food Wagon runs July 6 through Aug. 24, from 4-6 p.m. Thursdays at the Rhinelander District Library located at 106 N. Stevens Street in Rhinelander.