Points of Light
Sep 11, 2024
Restoring Dignity, Supporting Families and Fighting Hunger in Madison
Jenny Czerkas has dedicated her life to uplifting some of Madison's most vulnerable communities. As the co-founder and operations director of Extended Hands Pantry, Jenny helped fill bellies and increase hope for countless low-income households, particularly for immigrants and refugees, who rely on the pantry for critical support.
Jenny started a 100% mobile food pantry during the pandemic to address the increasing food shortages faced by families. What began as an emergency response soon blossomed into an essential service. The success and overwhelming need for the mobile pantry led Jenny to expand the program into a permanent, indoor market. This innovate, faith-based pantry allows families to self-select their groceries for the week, ensuring they have access to foods that suit their cultural and dietary needs-all at no cost. Today this program provides food to over 2,100 people every month.