In April 2020, Food Bank of Iowa distributed more food in one month than ever before in the organization’s history. The Food Bank expects numbers to continue to rise as Iowans battle the economic effects of COVID-19.

Last month, Food Bank of Iowa distributed nearly 1.8 million pounds of food, a 31 percent increase compared to April 2019. The group is continuing to identify ways to meet the changing need across their 55-county service area.

“I am grateful to our supportive donors, volunteers, community partners and our team for their tireless efforts to get food out the door and into the hands of our friends and neighbors in need,” said Michelle Book, president and CEO at Food Bank of Iowa. “There is absolutely more work to be done as Iowans continue to deal with the effects of COVID-19.”

As the state’s largest hunger relief organization, Food Bank of Iowa has seen the need for food assistance increase considerably. The organization has worked to shift their distribution model to include more mobile pantries and drive-through distributions to reduce person to person contact. At a time when resources are scarce, the group is in need of additional funds to help purchase more food and packing supplies to accommodate the new distribution efforts.

“This pandemic is creating a huge demand for additional food assistance, including many who are experiencing need for the first time,” said Book. “We know that the impacts from COVID-19 will be felt for a long time, and we will continue to need additional support.”

Any organization or individual interested in joining the fight against hunger in Iowa can find opportunities on the Food Bank of Iowa website. Donating funds, food or time to Food Bank of Iowa makes a difference for Iowans in need across their service area.