The John Deere Foundation is committing $13 million over the next three years to Iowa food banks to help them find more food from local farms, Iowa Public Radio reported.
Iowa Food Banks Scale Up Direct Sourcing From Farmers
Nearly $3 million of the “Farm-to-Plate initiative” is earmarked specifically for the Food Bank of Iowa, River Bend Food Bank, and Northeast Iowa Food Bank. These three Feeding America affiliates currently purchase goods from around 20 total farmer suppliers in the state. Under the three-year initiative, the organizations plan to expand their direct supplier network to 117 farmers.
Deanna Kovar, president of John Deere’s Worldwide Ag and Turf division, noted the broader economic and nutritional impact of the program. “When we strengthen the path between Iowa farms and Iowa food banks, everyone benefits,” Kovar said. “We improve access to nutritious food, support agriculture, and help build stronger, more resilient communities.”
Supply Chain Logistics Drive Hunger Relief Demands
Tami Nielsen, CEO of the Food Bank of Iowa, pointed to the need to add more food sources and the importance of having strong partnerships across the food system.
Striking John Deere workers in Ottumwa, Iowa, tell us that there are over 120 people on the picket line. Restaurants are bringing down food for picketing workers and giving in-store discounts to union members, and Teamsters and UPS workers are refusing to cross the picket line. pic.twitter.com/ObjA1zR6za
“With record numbers facing hunger, our jobs aren’t getting any easier. That’s why it’s so important for food banks to have strong partnerships across the food system, from farmers and growers to transportation, storage and distribution,” Nielsen said.
To meet these logistical demands, the remaining Iowa funding will be distributed to other Feeding America affiliate food banks to improve food sourcing and distribution, while also funding meal packing volunteer events with John Deere employees.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Iowa Farm-to-Plate Initiative
How many farmers will supply the food banks by the end of the three-year program?
The participating food banks plan to scale their direct supplier network from around 20 total farmer suppliers to 117 farmers over three years.
Which specific organizations are receiving the initial direct-purchasing funds?
Nearly $3 million is allocated to the Food Bank of Iowa, River Bend Food Bank, and Northeast Iowa Food Bank to scale up their existing direct purchasing programs.
What activities are funded alongside food sourcing and distribution?
Alongside infrastructure upgrades for food sourcing and distribution, the initiative dedicates funding to meal packing volunteer events with John Deere employees.