You sparked Steven’s mission

“I have a mission — I’m here to help.” 

Four years ago, Steven came to Food Bank of Iowa partner pantry Catholic Charities in Des Moines to pick up food for the first time. Thanks to friends like you, he also found hope and inspiration to pay the kindness forward. 

“I’m now overly kind,” he says, jovially. “If that’s the worst I can be, that’s not bad.” 

During the COVID-19 pandemic, 10 of Steven’s friends and family members died — tragically including his wife and son. In the time that followed, Steven understandably had difficulty processing and turned to alcohol to cope with the loss. 

Eventually, Steven landed at a sober house where he now serves as house manager. At the same time, he works as a handyman. He says he receives Social Security income, but it’s not enough to live on. Catholic Charities has been there to help him with food assistance.  

“Food prices are way out of hand. It makes it very hard to get by when you’re not making much money,” Steven says. 

Thankfully, Steven can continue to pick up groceries at the food pantry, and volunteers there as much as he can.  

“When I was sick, they took care of me — why wouldn’t I help out now?” he says.  

Thank you for choosing to partner with Food Bank of Iowa today to take hunger off the table for families and individuals this fall!