News : Benton County Pork Producers Supporting Local Food Pantries

Recognizing the critical role that food pantries play in addressing hunger within communities, IPPA is reimbursing county pork producer organizations up to $1,000 for pork products donated to food pantries in their counties. This initiative underscores Iowa pork producers' dedication to giving back to their communities.
"Amid the ongoing challenges faced by many Iowa families, pork producers step up and offer assistance wherever possible," said Matt Gent, a pig farmer from Wellman who serves as IPPA president. "We understand the vital role that food pantries play in providing sustenance to those experiencing hardship, and we are proud to extend our support to these essential organizations."
This is the second year IPPA has organized the Pork in the Pantry program. Last year, 40 county pork producer organizations worked with IPPA to donate pork to local food pantries, totaling nearly $40,000 statewide and amounting to more than 50,000 meals for underprivileged Iowans. Many groups purchased the pork from local meat processors and grocery stores, helping to keep the dollars in their communities. 

Working with the "Iowa Pork Producers - Pork in the Pantry" initiative, the Benton County Pork Producers are making pork donations to three area Food Pantries in Benton County this spring.
The first donation was made to the Wesley Mobile Food Pantry which will distribute the pork roasts during their pantry hours on Saturday, March 16th from 9 - 10:30 AM.
Benton County Pork Producers plan to make two more donations across the county that will include the Shellsburg and the Belle Plaine Food Pantries by month's end.
We are grateful to Iowa Pork Producers for supporting the local producers. Special thanks to BC Pork Producer Denise Wiley for her time coordinating deliveries to the pantries.