Note From Our CEO

Dear Friends,

When food banks first popped up across the United States in the late 1970s and early 1980s, they brought with them a certain ethos: we can do more when we work together. Since 1982, Food Bank of Iowa has focused on building relationships with like-minded organizations. Today, through 500 partners, we distribute nearly 10 million meals per year. Collaboration is king in food banking!

That’s why, early this year, our staff led the charge to convene a new advocacy organization: the Iowa Hunger Coalition. The idea began through conversations with our fellow food banks across Iowa and our partners at the DMARC Food Pantry Network here in Des Moines. From there, the “big tent” grew to include food pantries, community action programs, food rescue organizations – a wide variety of Iowa hunger fighters.

Together, we can accomplish more at the Capitol. Iowa Hunger Coalition members operate in all four of Iowa’s Congressional districts, and dozens and dozens of state representatives’ and senators’ constituencies. We span the state, from Davenport to Council Bluffs, from Lamoni to Mason City, and everything in between.

When we work together, our voices are amplified. We’re ready to advocate for important anti-hunger legislation. Our sleeves are rolled up, and we’re ready to defend essential hunger programs like SNAP, WIC, and school lunches. The Iowa Hunger Coalition is poised to become an important voice, representing our neighbors who struggle with food insecurity.

Over the next few months, watch for more information on the Iowa Hunger Coalition, its goals, and how you can get involved. I hope you’ll join this brilliant collaboration, and lend your voice for Iowans in need.

Sincerely,

Michelle Book
President & CEO
Food Bank of Iowa