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This summer, the Deb and Jeff Hansen Foundation is distributing approximately 34,000 pounds of ground pork through the Haul Out Hunger program. Food pantries in communities across Iowa will receive pork donations to help address food insecurity and provide families with access to high-quality protein.
Over the past few weeks, 2,340 pounds of ground pork were delivered to pantries in Webster County, including Holy Trinity Catholic Food Pantry, UDMO Webster County, The Lord's Cupboard, Dayton Food Pantry, and Gowrie Community Pantry.
"Many families facing food insecurity often rely on inexpensive foods that fill stomachs, but may not provide enough nutrition," Melanie Fierke, executive director at The Lord's Cupboard, said. "Food pantries help by providing much needed protein that helps people stay healthy, strong, and full longer."
Laura Noehren, the foundation's program manager, said the hope is that these donations help food pantries address food security head-on.
"Food pantries continue to face growing demand while working with limited resources," she said. "Through Haul Out Hunger, we are proud to partner with local organizations that serve families in need and help provide nutritious pork to communities across Iowa."
The Haul Out Hunger program is one of several initiatives supported by the Deb and Jeff Hansen Foundation to combat food insecurity throughout the state. By partnering with local food pantries, the Foundation helps ensure families have access to protein-rich meals while supporting organizations working on the front lines of hunger relief.
In the months ahead, the Foundation will continue its mission to fight food insecurity through several unique programs. The Power Snack program will provide schools with coupons for deli ham and whole wheat bread, helping ensure students have access to nutritious meals at home. In December, the Operation Christmas Meal initiative will distribute pork loins to families in need across Iowa, continuing the Foundation's tradition of holiday giving and support.