BBQ event raised awareness and funds for fighting hunger in Iowa. View photos from Smoke Out Hunger HERE.

Food Bank of Iowa celebrated their sixth successful year of Smoke Out Hunger on Sunday, July 25. Families from around the metro enjoyed all-you-can-eat BBQ from a smoke-tastic lineup of local pit masters and restaurants. BBQ samplings were paired with local craft beers, live music and table games.

Vendors joined the fight against hunger, serving up delicious fare for attendees. These included:
Food vendors

  • Jethro’s and Splash
  • Captn’s BBQ
  • Fresh Market & Cafe
  • Rolling Smoke
  • Uncle Wendell’s
  • Hy-Vee

 

 Drink vendors

  • Backpocket Brewing
  • Exile Brewing Co.
  • Kinship Brewing Company
  • Big Grove Brewery
  • Millstream Brewing Co.
  • Keg Creek Brewing Compan
  • Anheuser Busch
  • ReUnion Brewery
The afternoon event on Cowles Commons was an opportunity for families to help Iowa families struggling to make ends meet. Funds raised from Smoke Out Hunger will provide 209,000 nutritious meals to Iowans.

“We live in a compassionate community,” said Michelle Book, president and CEO of Food Bank of Iowa. “One child out of six in Iowa does not have adequate food at home. I thank those who came together Sunday to make a difference in the lives of many.”

The event was presented by Nationwide and sponsored by ViClarity, Affinity Credit Union, Casey’s, Kum & Go, John Deere, BKD, Doll Distributing, Strategic America and Delta Dental.

Any organization or individual interested in joining the fight for a hunger-free Iowa can volunteer, donate, and find advocacy information at FoodBankIowa.org.