In 2025, UW-Extension and Forest County CAN worked with Feeding America to identify a new location for the Forest County food pantry following the closure of NEWCAP's food pantry in Crandon. Laona was selected because of its central location in Forest County and the absence of a grocery store or food pantry in the community.

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The Richard and Mary Anne Connor family donated vacant space in the Ovitz-Castaldo building, formerly used as a medical clinic when Laona's hospital closed in the 1980's. Named after the town's two doctors, the building has been home to Laona Pharmacy for many years. 

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Now, the Ovitz-Castaldo Building provides space for a countywide food pantry serving Forest County community members most in need of food and essentials. As a centralized Forest County location, Helping Hands of Forest County's Laona food pantry will be supported through The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) along with private donations, supportive families, business sponsorships and other non-profits. 

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A special thank you to Tammy Collins for filing for non-profit status along with Cheryl Hobbs for planting the seed that grew into Helping Hands of Forest County. 

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