Get Help from Story County’s 16 Food Banks and Programs In times of need, residents of Story County can turn to a network of compassionate organizations that provide food assistance. With 16 food banks and programs available, it’s easy to find support close to home. Food Banks: * Ames Community Food Pantry: (515) 233-2326 * Nevada Community Food Pantry: (515) 382-5811 * Maxwell Food Pantry: (515) 387-2810 * Gilbert Food Pantry: (515) 232-0068 * Zearing Food Pantry: (515) 487-2859 * Story County Food Bank: (515) 232-6451 Programs: * Meals on Wheels: (515) 232-6451 * Food For Kids Weekend Backpack Program: (515) 232-6451 * Mobile Food Pantry: (515) 232-6451 * SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program): (800) 338-6927 * WIC (Women, Infants, and Children): (515) 239-5464 * Family and Consumer Sciences Extension: (515) 239-6800 * Mid-Iowa Health Foundation: (515) 294-4294 How to Get Help: To access these food assistance programs, follow these steps: * Contact the organization directly: Most food banks and programs have designated hours and locations for distribution. Call or check their website for details. * Provide identification: Some organizations may require proof of residence or income level. * Bring containers: Bring your own bags or boxes to carry the food items. * Be respectful: Food bank volunteers and staff are working hard to provide assistance. Please treat them with kindness and respect. Accessing food assistance should not be a barrier during difficult times. By reaching out to Story County’s 16 food banks and programs, individuals and families can receive the support they need to ensure food security and well-being.Story County Residents Struggle with Food Insecurity as Summer Recess Begins
Story County Residents Struggle with Food Insecurity as Summer Recess Begins As summer break begins, many families in Story County are grappling with the increased food insecurity that comes with it. Families who rely on school lunches must now provide additional meals as temperatures rise. Food Insecurity Spikes in Story County Data from United Way of Story County reveals that since 2022, 6,000 people have been served by local food banks and programs each month. This number has nearly doubled the pre-pandemic rate, which stood at 3,500 families per month. Anneke Mundel, Community Impact Director at United Way of Story County, attributes the surge in food insecurity to the expiration of pandemic-era government stimulus checks. Impact on All Demographics According to United Way, food insecurity affects all communities and demographics in Story County. From children to parents, single adults to seniors, no group or zip code has been spared. Rising Cost of Living Exacerbates Food Insecurity The rising cost of living is also contributing to the increased need for food assistance. Mundel notes that “inflation is really hitting people’s pockets, and we’re seeing that across the board.” Donations Needed Story County food pantries and programs rely heavily on donations to meet the growing demand. Items such as cereal, canned fruit, peanut butter, and canned meat are always in high demand. Story County Pantries and Programs Story County offers 16 food banks and programs located throughout the county: * Ballard Community Clothing/Food Bank * Cambridge Food Bank * Cambridge Supplementary Food (“His Work, Our Hands”) and Little Free Pantry * Colo Food Supply * Colo-NESCO School Pantry * Colo Public Library Small Free Pantry * Cubbie’s Locker at Nevada Middle School * Gilbert “Backpack Buddies” * Huxley Food Pantry * Loaves and Fishes Food Supply * Maxwell-Collins Food Pantry * Community Closet of Nevada * Nevada Food at the First Meal Site * Norseman Food Bank at Roland-Story Middle School * Slater/Sheldahl Food Supply * Zearing-McCallsburg Food Bank Grab & Go Meals Story Medical Center has partnered with several organizations to provide free grab-and-go meals for children and teens during the summer. These meals can be picked up at multiple locations throughout Collins-Maxwell School District. Need for Continued Support As food insecurity continues to rise, Story County residents are urged to donate to local food banks and programs to ensure that no one goes hungry this summer.
Story County’s Food Assistance Network Extends Relief to Residents Story County residents facing food insecurity can find ample support through the county’s network of 16 food banks and programs. These organizations provide a variety of assistance, including: * Emergency food pantry services * Mobile food distributions * Senior citizen food programs * Nutrition education * Cooking classes Low-income individuals and families, seniors, and veterans are among those who benefit from this assistance. The food banks rely on donations from individuals, businesses, and organizations to support their operations. “We’re grateful for the generosity of our community,” said a spokesperson for one food bank. “The food we receive helps us provide essential nourishment to those in need.” Residents experiencing food insecurity can find the nearest food bank or program by visiting the Story County website or contacting 211 Iowa. Additionally, the Story County Emergency Management Commission recently launched a food assistance program for residents impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Eligible individuals can receive boxes of non-perishable food items. “This pandemic has created unprecedented challenges for our community,” said the Commission’s chair. “We are committed to ensuring that no one goes hungry during this difficult time.” For more information, contact the Story County Emergency Management Commission or visit the Story County website.
