(Hiawatha, IA – March 16, 2020) HACAP Food Reservoir knows the challenges of the families we serve in East Central Iowa are only being exacerbated by the current COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, we know that many families are only one paycheck away from choosing between food and their bills and the economic impact of this terrible pandemic will only increase the need in our communities.
The HACAP Food Reservoir has begun addressing this growing concern, by making changes to their distribution, particularly at their Mobile Food Pantries. Starting March 16, the Mobile Pantries will move to distribution with pre-boxed food and clients will be asked to wait in the vehicles to minimize personal contact. The distribution will continue to include fresh produce and meat in addition to non-perishable items.
“We know this isn’t the ideal way to distribute food, but we’re committed to continuing to get food to those who need it while also protecting the health of our clients, volunteers, and staff,” said Angie Albright, Partner Agency and Programs Manager.
The Food Reservoir is also working with our partner agencies to help them make changes to distribution to protect the health of their staff, volunteers, and clients. Those changes include moving to limiting each household to 1 representative to pick up food, distribution by appointment, and pre-boxed distribution. We encourage all clients to remain in contact with their pantries to stay up to date about any changes.
The Food Reservoir is confident that their current infrastructure, food-safety practices, and the public’s participation in these preventative measures, can greatly influence the local outcome, even as the ever-changing current national COVID-19 situation continues to unfold. They also state, that now, perhaps more than ever, is when donations and other means of support can make the most impact. To find out how you can help during this time please go to hacap.org.
The HACAP Food Reservoir provides nutritious food and grocery products to over 150 partner agencies who assist the hungry and to individuals who are in need of food assistance to sustain life. Last year, the Food Bank distributed more than 9 million pounds of food.
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