In July 2024, the Des Moines Area Religious Council (DMARC) Food Pantry Network provided assistance to a staggering 28,047 unique individuals—an all-time high in its nearly 50-year history. This alarming statistic is more than just a number–it's a clear indication of the increasing hardships faced by many, even in communities that appear stable on the surface.

Food insecurity is no longer confined to urban areas—it’s spreading across every part of Iowa, from busy cities to quiet rural towns. Despite this rising need, critical support programs like SNAP (formerly Food Stamps) are underutilized, with enrollment at a 16-year low in Iowa. Stigma, administrative barriers, and recent cuts to benefits have left many without the support they desperately need.

Why does this matter to you? Because these numbers represent real people—your neighbors, coworkers, your children's classmates, or even the person who served your coffee this morning. The cost of living crisis impacts not just the economy but the very fabric of our communities and the well-being of everyone in it.

Iowa Bankers are stepping up to make a difference. Your donation will be put to immediate, impactful use. Together, we can ensure that food is available to all Iowans. After all, a community is only as strong as its most vulnerable members.

Thank you for your generosity and commitment to making Iowa a place where everyone can thrive.