OUR MISSION

To combat food insecurity by growing food and farmers.

OUR VALUES

To increase health equity in our community by creating a sustainable local food system that removes barriers to nutrient-dense food access and land for farming for underserved populations in Linn County.

 Health and Nutrition –  We remove barriers to food access by providing fresh nutritious food to increase health equity to our underserved communities.   

Dignity –  We remove the stigma of being food insecure by serving any community member in need of culturally appropriate foods.  

Equity – We do not discriminate based on race, gender, religion, age, ability, or any other demographic. If a person expresses need, we serve them.

Balance – We are committed to growing a sustainable team based on pillars of trust, communication, and work-life balance.

Health Equity Statement: 

Founded in 2011, Feed Iowa First has been addressing increasing food insecurity in Linn County by growing culturally relevant vegetables for underserved communities for over a decade. We believe health equity begins with food access; we work to meet the food needs of our community, simultaneously reducing waste by growing what is needed and wanted. We distribute 30,000 to 40,000 lbs. of fresh produce to economically disadvantaged households, immigrant and refugee families, and anyone in need through partnerships with local food pantries, health clinics, community fridges, and low-income apartments. Our model ensures households have consistent access to fresh and culturally appropriate produce to support nutrition security. 

DEI Statement: 

Feed Iowa First is committed to advancing equity and diversity in farming by connecting emerging, underserved farmers to land, equipment, and training in Iowa. We believe health equity begins with food. By supporting emerging farmers, we significantly improve access to nutritious and appropriate food central to cultural diets for all Linn County residents.