County staff reported that the recent federal government shutdown ended before the meeting and that FoodShare (WisconsinFoodShare SNAP) benefits for November were issued; staff said FoodShare funding is covered through September 2026.

Amy, who handles economic support for the Northern Income Maintenance Consortium, explained that Ashland Countycall-center workers serve residents across a 12-county consortium and fielded many calls during the shutdown. Amy said her staff "deescalated and helped calm people down and direct them to other resources in their local communities," and praised staff for their work.

Board members and volunteers said community food assistance experienced increased demand during the shutdown. One staffer cited national reports that food-shelf usage rose "40 to 60%" during the period; a Ruby's Pantry volunteer said the organization ordered 100 more shares for November and that distributions rose from 216 shares in October to about 312 in November.

County staff also described local mutual-aid efforts: Ashland and Bayfield counties coordinated a food drive and multiple community partners provided support to residents while benefits were temporarily uncertain.