Grinnell College Joins Community Partners to Help Families Facing Heightened Food Insecurity
College, Grinnell Mutual, and the Campbell Fund Launch Community Challenge to Aid Families Impacted by SNAP Suspension.
The College is joining Grinnell Mutual and the Campbell Fund in responding to an urgent call from the Grinnell Food Coalition (GFC), which is mobilizing support for Poweshiek County families affected by the temporary suspension of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits earlier this fall. Although benefits are expected to return, many households and local food providers continue to face significant strain as demand for food assistance rises.
To help bridge this critical gap, Grinnell College, Grinnell Mutual, and the Campbell Fund have each committed $10,000 to the Coalition’s emergency appeal. These early contributions bring the GFC to more than halfway toward its $50,000 goal, designed to meet both immediate needs and sustained food-security efforts county-wide.
Meeting Immediate Needs, Strengthening Long-Term Support
The Grinnell Food Coalition plans to distribute up to 3,000 emergency grocery vouchers—each valued at $10—to help families stretch their food budgets during this difficult period. In addition to direct support for households, the Coalition will reinforce the capacity of local food pantries, meal programs, and community-based emergency food initiatives, all of which have experienced increased demand since the disruption of SNAP benefits.
“Grinnell College is glad to be part of a community that pulls together in times of need. We’ve seen this community accomplish amazing things when working together, and we’re proud to collaborate with our partners at Grinnell Mutual to support this emergency response,” said, Monica Chavez-Silva, vice president for Community Engagement & Strategic Planning, Grinnell College.
“Grinnell Mutual believes in supporting our community, and especially those faced with food insecurity. We believe that together with Grinnell College, offering these funds will serve as a springboard for support from our local residents and businesses,” said, Barb Baker, director of Advertising and Community Relations, Grinnell Mutual.
A Coordinated, County-Wide Response
The GFC’s steering committee has acted quickly to assess needs and deliver assistance. Current efforts include:
Coordinating closely with food pantries, meal programs, and community groups to understand real-time needs
Distributing emergency grocery vouchers and doubling availability through the next month
Encouraging community partners to request emergency food grants without typical funding limits
Sharing up-to-date information about where families can access food support across Poweshiek County
“Across Poweshiek County, food pantries and meal programs are already feeling increased demand, and they are working tirelessly to support families who are struggling,” said Jennifer Cogley, director of Programs for the Claude W. and Dolly Ahrens Foundation. “The Grinnell Food Coalition is committed to uplifting these organizations. We believe it’s essential to work alongside the groups who have their boots on the ground every day, ensuring our neighbors have access to the food they need.”
The Grinnell Food Coalition invites individuals, local businesses, and organizations to join this community-wide effort. Every donation—large or small—provides direct support to families navigating an uncertain season and helps ensure Poweshiek County’s food-support network remains strong. To donate or learn more, visit: Grinnell Food Coalition