The Food Bank of Iowa is a large distribution center that sends food to more than 700 partner pantries and agencies across 55 Iowa counties. While its main role is wholesale distribution and not open to the public, some visitors have reported being able to receive food assistance at the Des Moines location in person. If you are nearby and facing food insecurity, it may be worth a visit. Just bring a photo ID and be prepared to answer a few short questions upon arrival.
They also run a mobile pantry program, so check their website for the latest schedule and locations. If you would like to give back, food donations are also welcome at this location.
Bring a photo ID. You'll be asked a few questions at check-in before receiving food.
Each person can visit once per month.
Wait times can be long, especially at peak hours. Arriving about 10 minutes before they open or coming between noon and 1 p.m. tends to mean shorter lines. You'll receive a pre-packaged food box when you pick up.
Food is distributed as a pre-packaged box of non-perishable items. Through the Mobile Pantry Program, the Food Bank also brings fresh produce, meat, bread, and nonperishable items directly to communities across 30 Iowa counties.
Walk in to the distribution center, show your ID, and answer a few questions at the desk. Then take a seat and wait. Staff and volunteers will let you know when your food is ready.
Food donations are accepted at the Des Moines distribution center at 2220 E. 17th St. during these hours:
Please call 515-564-0330 before dropping off a large donation. All food must be undamaged, unexpired, and in its original packaging. The most-needed items include canned protein like chicken and tuna, canned fruits and vegetables, pasta sauce, soups and skillet meals, peanut butter and jelly, and cereal or breakfast bars. Fresh garden produce and homegrown items are also welcome, as are donations from hunters and farmers with meat processed at USDA-inspected facilities.
For questions about large or food-industry donations, contact Emily Shearer at eshearer@foodbankiowa.org or 515-867-2894.
Financial donations can be made at foodbankiowa.org/give. More than 96 cents of every dollar donated goes directly to feed Iowans. You can give once, set up a monthly gift, or include the Food Bank in your estate planning.
Volunteer shifts are available in Des Moines in the morning, afternoon, and evening. All volunteers must register for a shift through the online calendar at foodbankiowa.volunteerhub.com/vv2/. Walk-ins are not accommodated.
Groups of five or more can request a shift together by filling out the group volunteer form. Please allow 6 to 8 weeks of lead time. To sponsor a volunteer shift for your organization, contact Dawne Garvey at dgarvey@foodbankiowa.org.
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