IMG 8064 768x512Before COVID, Marla earned money as a caregiver, but her work dried up quickly during the pandemic. Ever since, she’s been caring for her mother, who is 87 and has dementia, while also helping out regularly with her daughter’s three children.  

Caring for a family without a source of income is nearly impossible. With the cost of housing, bills, medication and food, Marla’s pre-COVID savings could only go so far. 

Fortunately, Cottage Pantry, a Food Bank of Iowa partner agency in Stuart, is there for its neighbors facing hardship, like Marla. Cottage Pantry strengthens the community by providing food for children, families, veterans and seniors to lead full and active lives. 

Thanks to generous friends like you, Marla can get the nutritious food she needs for her family to thrive. Marla, her mother, daughter and three grandchildren will have enough food to eat so their limited budget can go toward other necessary expenses – like the heating bill and medications.   

To our donors, Marla says, “I really appreciate your help.”  

Thank you for making invaluable resources like community pantries possible for our neighbors facing hunger. Here’s to 40 more years in partnership together!