'No person should have to go hungry': SNAP benefits deadline looming over residents

By: Andie Bernhardt

Posted: Oct 29, 2025 8:26 PM CDT

NOW: ’No person should have to go hungry’: SNAP benefits deadline looming over residents

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The clock is ticking for the hundreds of thousands of people in Wisconsin whose SNAP benefits will be paused.

"I'm not sure how I'm going to survive to be honest," said Anthony Halliwell, who relies on SNAP Benefits.

As November 1st fast approaches, Anthony Halliwell and his partner, Lazarus Halliwell say they are running out of other resources to turn to once their SNAP benefits are gone.

"We already go to food pantries," said Anthony Halliwell "We already visit the Milwaukee LGBT Community Center once a week for their pantry. So, to be able to find an additional $300 just to make sure that we have staples is going to be insane."

Anthony says both he and his partner are disabled, so they rely on SNAP to help provide their meals.

"I'm really overwhelmed honestly, I can't really get out much," said Lazarus Halliwell.

Feeling frustrated and helpless as they try to navigate the uncertain road ahead.

"It feels like our right as human beings to be fed is being held hostage," said Anthony Halliwell. "No person should have to go hungry regardless of if they make $5 or $500. Everybody should be allowed to eat."

The couple, much like many others across the state, are turning to their community in their time of need.

That’s what inspired Murphy Beirbach to create a free pantry in her front yard in Caledonia.

"As a mom myself, I can't imagine having to tell my kids I'm sorry, there's no more food," said Beirbach. "We have to do what we can to help with what we have."

Stocking the pantry with canned goods, hygiene products, books and more, she says she has several people stop by daily.

"So many people started coming," said Beirbach. "At first I was like, did I bite off more than I can chew here? I wasn't expecting such a big response, at least not right away."

Beirbach says if you are looking to use her food pantry, it's open 24-7 at 5745 Middle Road in Caledonia. She says people are also welcome to donate and drop off supplies as well.