In 2024, the Deb and Jeff Hansen Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Iowa Select Farms, made a profound impact on the lives of Iowans, contributing over $2.6 million across a wide range of charitable programs focused on food security, veteran support, and childhood cancer care.
With an average of 5.5 programs reaching each of Iowa’s 99 counties, the Foundation continues to be a cornerstone of community care and compassion in rural Iowa.
Feeding Families Across Iowa
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Power Snack Program: 25,666 students received over 1.2 million ham sandwich meals through school-distributed coupons for deli ham and whole wheat bread.
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Haul Out Hunger: Delivered 34,440 lbs. of ground pork to 105 food pantries—creating 137,760 meals across 41 counties.
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Operation Christmas Meal: 26,000 pork loins were given away at 23 events with help from over 500 Iowa Select Farms volunteers.
Strengthening Our Military Communities
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Pork Care Packages: 16,304 coupon-filled care packages were hand-delivered to Iowa’s active and reserve military families.
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Pork for Patriots: 6,396 pork loins distributed to 160 organizations for Veterans Day events—up 45% from 2023.
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Project: Food and Fellowship: 55 military organizations received over $50,000 in microgrants to host community gatherings.
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My Veteran Hero: 2,501 veterans were honored with custom apparel gifts, touching 91 out of 99 Iowa counties.
Uplifting Children and Families Affected by Cancer
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Powerful Partnerships: The Foundation continued its decade-long support of Children’s Cancer Connection, delivering critical care kits, Bravery Beads, Courage Store rewards, and Star Boxes to families in need.
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Henry’s Heroes Dream Kits: 500 shelter-bound children received comfort kits filled with essentials, plush toys, and creativity kits.
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A Special Adventure: 27 families experienced all-inclusive weekend getaways to Iowa destinations, fostering moments of joy and healing.
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Surprise Packages: Over 400 families received festive care boxes in summer and fall, bringing smiles to homes impacted by cancer.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Givers
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Ignite the Spirit: A record 101 youth-based organizations, including FFA, 4-H, and school groups, participated in this growing program—distributing pork, meals, and kindness across 47 counties.
Legacy of Giving Since 2006
Founded by Deb and Jeff Hansen of Iowa Select Farms, the Foundation continues to serve as a symbol of how agriculture and community can work hand-in-hand to support Iowans through innovative, high-impact programs. From stocking freezers and feeding children to honoring veterans and comforting grieving families, 2024 was another unforgettable year of giving.
Learn more or read the full 2024 Impact Report at Iowa Select Farms Foundation page.
