Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig today announced that the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship is investing an additional $200,000 for the second full year of the Choose Iowa Farms to Food Banks Program. Under the Department's Choose Iowa program, the successful initiative received a second year of funding from the Iowa Legislature during the 2025 session. Secretary Naig made the funding announcement in Hiawatha during a visit to HACAP (Hawkeye Area Community Action Program), one of six food banks partnering with Choose Iowa and its members.
“Iowa's continued investment in the Choose Iowa Farms to Food Banks Program is a vital step in addressing food insecurity across our state. By partnering with local food banks and farmers, we're not only providing fresh, nutritious food to those in need but also supporting local farmers and small businesses,” said Secretary Naig. “With a second year of funding, we're poised to build on the program's success and make an even greater impact in our communities. This initiative is just one of many ways Choose Iowa is creating new markets and opportunities for Iowa farmers and producers while building stronger connections that benefit Iowans in need.”
The Iowa Legislature allocated $200,000 for the second year of the program. The funding will be used to support six Iowa food banks including Food Bank of Iowa, HACAP, River Bend Food Bank, Northeast Iowa Food Bank, Food Bank of Siouxland, and Food Bank for the Heartland. Participating food banks match state funds dollar-for-dollar, doubling the impact. Eligible purchases include dairy products, meat and poultry, eggs, honey and produce. Additionally, flour and grains are now eligible to be purchased this year.
Source : iowaagriculture.gov