Food Pantry
Each of our center locations has an emergency food pantry and offers some hygiene item assistance. We are able to purchase some foods through the Food Bank of Iowa and some local retailers to provide to those in need. We accept items and financial donations from individuals, gardeners, foundations, farmers, civic groups, faith groups, and businesses.
Staff and volunteers make up a standard box to give away of items currently available to those who come seeking food. Additional items, such as hygiene needs, may be requested. Available items may vary and depend on current stock and donations.
Common needs in our pantries include
- Canned meats
- Canned fruits
- Peanut butter
- Dry goods (pasta, pasta helper/meal kits, pancake mix, mashed potatoes, etc)
- Child friendly and easy foods
- Toilet Paper
- Hygiene products (soaps, cleaning supplies, feminine hygiene, bathroom supplies)
Donations can be dropped off at any of our centers Monday through Friday, 8am – 4:30pm (Columbus Junction Tuesday & Wednesday). Those in need may request items at any of our centers.
With the end of extra pandemic benefits in the state SNAP (nutrition assistance) program, we have seen a large increase in those in need of food at our pantries. In June 2022 we served 566 households compared to 253 in June 2021, 238 in June 2020, and 347 in June 2019. There is a great need in our communities.
Community Action Food Pantry Information Webpage
