Iowa’s pig farmers are once again demonstrating their commitment to community care and food security. The Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA), in partnership with Fareway Stores, Inc., delivered more than 9,500 pounds of ground pork — valued at $20,000 — to six regional food banks across Iowa and western Nebraska this week.
The donations, part of IPPA’s ongoing Pork in the Pantry initiative, will provide an estimated 38,000 servings of high-quality protein to families in need. Deliveries took place October 28–29 to food banks in Des Moines, Davenport, Waterloo, Hiawatha, Sioux City, and Omaha.
“This effort is about more than just delivering pork—it’s about caring for our neighbors,” said Aaron Juergens, a Carroll pig farmer and IPPA president. “Through the We Care principles, Iowa pig farmers are committed to supporting people, animals, and the communities we call home. Working with partners like Fareway and our state’s food banks helps ensure families have access to nutritious, high-quality protein.”
Funds raised at IPPA’s annual BBQ & Brew at the Ballpark event helped make the donation possible, while Fareway provided the logistics support to deliver pork directly to the food banks.
“Fareway is proud to partner with Iowa’s pig farmers to fight food insecurity,” said Jeff Cook, VP of retail market operations at Fareway Stores, Inc. “Providing ground pork aligns with our commitment to supporting Iowa agriculture and strengthening local communities.”
According to Linda Gorkow, executive director of the Iowa Food Bank Association, protein donations like these are among the most impactful.
“We’re grateful to IPPA and Fareway for their generosity,” she said. “This kind of support helps ensure that Iowans facing food insecurity can put nutritious meals on their tables.”
Through efforts like Pork in the Pantry, Iowa’s pig farmers continue to live out their We Care pledge — ensuring that communities across the state have access to nutritious, affordable food while supporting Iowa agriculture.
Photos from the food bank deliveries are available through the Iowa Pork Producers Association.
