Organizations Fighting Hunger

Description:

Growing Wapello Together is a collaborative initiative focused on increasing access to fresh and healthy food and reducing food insecurity in Wapello County. The group has been meeting since September of 2013. 

Phase One of the project focused on understanding the problems of food insecurity and food deserts, identifying community assets, discovering where the need is greatest, and prioritizing solutions. Phase Two focused on community-owned actions to grow and expand existing programs (assets) into the areas of highest need. Focus areas included expanding Summer Food Service Programs, expanding and funding access to low-cost transportation options, bringing the Southeast Iowa Food Bank's backpack program into additional schools, piloting a healthy food box initiative, and encouraging increased enrollment among SNAP eligible individuals.

Growing Wapello Together entered Phase Three in July of 2016, and is focused on strategic planning, identifying long-term partners and sources of funding, and moving to a more formal and sustainable organizational structure.

How to Help:

Individuals and organizations can support Growing Wapello Together by attending neighborhood meetings, participating in the strategic planning process, and taking action in focus areas by volunteering or through donations. They are encouraged to contact Mr. Joe Schulz to learn more about Growing Wapello Together or to become involved.

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