Business : Fareway and Iowa Farm Bureau “Meat the Need” with Donation to Iowa Food Banks

Fareway Stores, Inc. and the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation announced Monday the donation of a truckload of protein to Iowa’s six Feeding America food banks as part of their annual Meat the Need partnership. The donation, delivered this morning to the Food Bank of Iowa, includes 23 pallets totaling 25,000 pounds of protein — the equivalent of 100,000 servings for Iowans in need. Dos Rios taco meat (12,000 lbs.) was secured through a partnership with Two Rivers, while the ground pork portion (13,000 lbs.) was purchased from Webster City Custom Meats.

“Fareway is honored to join forces with the Iowa Farm Bureau for the fourth year of Meat the Need,” Jeff Cook, Vice President of Retail Market Operations, Fareway Stores, Inc. said. “Together, we’re making a meaningful impact by providing protein to families who need it most. This donation reflects our ongoing commitment to serving the communities where our employees and customers live.”

This marks the fourth consecutive year of the Meat the Need initiative, which ensures families across Iowa have access to essential protein during a critical time of year.

“Iowa farmers take great pride in growing and raising the food that supports our communities,” Iowa Farm Bureau President, Brent Johnson said. “Food insecurity is a challenge that many families are currently facing, and Iowa Farm bureau is proud to partner with Fareway again to ‘Meat the Need’ and provide fresh, high-quality protein to those who need support.”

This donation arrives at a pivotal moment, as food banks across Iowa are serving a record number of individuals — many seeking assistance for the very first time.”

“Protein is critical for a balanced diet, yet it’s often the hardest item for food banks to source. Thanks to Fareway and the Iowa Farm Bureau, thousands of Iowans will have access to high-quality protein this season.” Tami Nielsen, President & CEO, Food Bank of Iowa said. “We are deeply grateful for their continued generosity and partnership.”

About Meat the Need…

The Meat the Need program was launched to address food insecurity across Iowa by providing protein donations to Feeding America food banks. Since its inception, the partnership between Fareway Stores, Inc. and the Iowa Farm Bureau has delivered hundreds of thousands of protein servings to Iowans in need.

About Fareway…

Fareway Stores, Inc. is a growing Midwest grocery company currently operating 143 stores in a seven-state region. Fareway’s mission is to provide the highest quality products, while treating customers like family, and valuing dedicated employees. Its stores are known for their unmatched, full-service meat departments, farm-fresh produce, and exceptional toyour-car customer service. Fareway is a family-owned business, recognized as a top 10 employer in Iowa, and has more than 13,000 total employees. Visit Fareway.com for more information or shop online by visiting Shop.Fareway.com.

About Iowa Farm Bureau: 

The Iowa Farm Bureau Federation is the largest statewide, grassroots farm organization in Iowa, celebrating more than 100 years of creating a vibrant future for agriculture, farm families and their communities. For more information, visit www.iowafarmbureau.com. 

About Food Bank of Iowa: 

Established in 1982, Food Bank of Iowa provides nutritious food for Iowa children, families, seniors and veterans to lead full and active lives, strengthening their communities. Serving 55 of Iowa’s 99 counties, Food Bank of Iowa delivers more than 27.3 million pounds of food (22.7 million meals) to its 700 partners annually. Learn more at foodbankiowa.org