Thousands of Iowans struggle with food insecurity, or not having enough nutritious food to eat. According to a shocking statistic from the Food Bank of Iowa’s website, a third of those Iowans facing hunger are children.  

Recently, the Food Bank of Iowa received nearly $9,000 from the Legacy Foundation’s Bright Ideas Community Enrichment Fund to be used to Fight Childhood Hunger in Wapello County.  

This grant funding will continue to help the Food Bank of Iowa grow its school pantry and mobile pantry programs in Wapello County. They will be able to increase the number of pounds of food distributed through each pantry program and also be able to provide hygiene items which include items such as soap, shampoo, feminine hygiene products, toothpaste, and deodorant. 

Food Bank of Iowa’s mission is to provide food for Iowa children, families, veterans, and seniors to lead full and active lives, strengthening the communities where they live. You can support those experiencing food insecurity by volunteering at the Ottumwa Distribution Center. Community members interested in volunteering can visit https://www.foodbankiowa.org/volunteer.