Community spirit was on full display this week as the Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA) and Fareway Stores partnered with Central Iowa Shelter & Services (CISS) for the ninth annual Giving Tuesday breakfast. The effort brought hot meals, essential supplies, and meaningful support to individuals experiencing homelessness across Des Moines, Ames, and Grinnell.
Volunteers gathered before sunrise at CISS in Des Moines to prepare and serve breakfast, while partner organizations distributed additional meals at The Bridge Home in Ames and the Empowerment Command Center in Grinnell. In total, thousands of plates were served thanks to the coordinated effort of Iowa’s pork community and local leaders.
IPPA also donated hundreds of backpacks filled with stocking hats, socks, and pork sticks — a practical show of support during Iowa’s coldest months.
“Food insecurity and homelessness remain real challenges for too many Iowans,” said Chris Bellcock, regional director for the Iowa Pork Producers Association. “Giving Tuesday allows us to demonstrate through actions, not just words, how much Iowa’s pig farmers care about their communities.”
Fareway supplied the full breakfast spread, including 1,200 slices of bacon, 50 pounds of sausage patties, 132 pounds of eggs, 1,050 pancakes, along with fresh fruit, milk, juice, and coffee.
“Giving Tuesday is a powerful reminder of what we can accomplish when we come together,” said Reynolds Cramer, CEO of Fareway Stores, Inc. “Fareway is proud to partner with the Iowa Pork Producers and Central Iowa Shelter & Services to serve individuals who rely on the shelter during the cold season.”
CISS CEO Melissa O’Neil says the event has become a tradition that reflects the strength of Iowa’s agriculture and business community. “This is by far our favorite event of the entire year,” O’Neil said. “It’s our opportunity to challenge that servant heart with our elected officials — and the Iowa Pork Producers and Fareway step up and lead the way.”
IPPA staff and volunteers were joined by members of the Des Moines Police Department, Des Moines Fire Department, and city council in serving meals to guests at the shelter.
The annual Giving Tuesday breakfast continues to highlight the commitment of Iowa’s pork producers to supporting their communities, far beyond the farm.
