For four years, Ascension NE Wisconsin - Mercy Hospital has made weekly food donations to Nova Counseling Services, a facility that supports individuals recovering from substance use disorders in the Oshkosh area.

Ascension Mercy donates prepackaged food items that have reached their sell-by date. Due to hospital policies, once a product reaches this date, it can no longer be sold in the cafeteria, however, the food is still safe to eat.

“At Ascension, we commit ourselves to serving everyone, especially those who are most vulnerable in our communities,” said  Bryan Federwitz, Director of Food and Nutrition Services at Ascension Mercy. “We don’t want to waste this food that is safe to eat and having Nova as a community partner ensures it goes to someone who needs it.”

These donations help feed at least 50 Nova clients each week. The variety of donationed items includes:

• Frozen foods which are stored and incorporated into upcoming meal plans
• Snacks, such as chips and granola bars
• Beverages, including soda, tea and water 
• Prepared dishes, which are served in a timely manner
• Dry storage items, used as needed in different recipes
• Disposable tableware for meals 
• Other kitchen supplies such as utensils, dishware and cookware

“When they first arrive at our facility, many of our clients have not eaten in days. Some are homeless, or were recently incarcerated and are desperately looking for something to eat,” said Nova Counseling Services Food Manager Ann Resop. “These food donations truly go above and beyond in helping our clients feel nourished and cared for during their recovery.

So far in 2025, Ascension Mercy has donated 518 pounds of food to Nova. Additionally, the hospital also contributed food to Nova’s annual end-of-the summer picnic.