Iowa State University Extension

Problem:
Alden is a small community in Hardin County with a population of about 900 and a poverty rate of 10.6% (2000 census). Its Food Pantry has been in existence for a number of years, stocked primarily through monthly food drives conducted by the three local churches. In recent years, only about 3 local families were using the food pantry, despite the clear likelihood that many more families would benefit. The need to make sure people knew about and were comfortable using the food pantry has been even more pressing as the recent economic downturn has dramatically reduced the incomes of many local families.

Response:
In the fall of 2008 , Alden was accepted into the Horizons program, which focuses on mobilizing a community to address poverty. The program is delivered by ISU Extension with funding from the Northwest Area Foundation. After more than 40 local residents participated in 5-week study circles to expand and deepen their understanding of poverty, a goal was set to increase usage of the food pantry. A committee made up of interested study circle participants met with the current food pantry coordinators to discuss possibilities. As a result, a couple of new volunteers were trained and regular food pantry hours were established, instead of the previous arrangement in which families needed to call the food pantry coordinator to request food. In addition, the pantry was publicized in the new Alden Newsletter, through posters, and through a mailing (in cooperation with the school) in May to families whose children are eligible for free or reduced school lunch.

Impact:
Improved awareness and changes in structure have led to a doubling in the number of families using the food pantry. During the summer months, six Alden families benefited from the food pantry, three of whom had never used the pantry before. The committee continues to work on outreach, as well as on ways to make the food pantry a convenient and comfortable place for local families to seek assistance when needed. Corollary Impact: In an effort separate from Horizons, but likely inspired by Horizons, the Alden United Methodist church through its local Missions committee took on the project of providing free school supplies to any child in the Alden community who needed them for elementary school. The church extended its request for donations into the community through the Horizons steering committee and the local Alden newsletter. Donations of supplies and funds were received from individuals and from groups. Thirty-three children from 15 families were supplied the first Saturday of August. Several families were referred by their case worker. The project was deemed a success, and will be continued in future years.

Additional ISUE Extension Staff:
Darwin Miller County Extension Education Director, Hardin County

Contact:
Barb Wollan
Hamilton County Extension
311 Bank Street
Webster City, IA 50595
515-832-9597