Today, the John Deere Foundation announced an $18.5 million multi-year Farm-to-Plate strategy to address food insecurity in the Midwest. The investment will support Feeding America partner food banks, recover farm-grown food, and connect over one hundred Iowa farmers with local food banks combatting hunger across the country. John Deere Foundation President Taryn Edgin said the announcement focuses on strengthening the food system itself.
Edgin said Farm-to-Plate is also designed to encourage John Deere employees to volunteer their time to pack meals and support local hunger-relief efforts.
While this is a national effort, Iowa will play a key role. Deanna Kovar, president of the worldwide ag & turf division for production and precision ag at John Deere, said three food banks will expand their existing partnerships with Iowa farmers from 20 to over 100 producers.
Kovar said this is a win for both the farmers and food banks involved.
Emily Wynn of Brewer Family Farms has partnerships with both food banks and the Choose Iowa program and made some connections on how they are similarly able to help food insecure Iowans and support family farms.
Wynn added that farms of all sizes can help out in the effort to combat food insecurity.
For more information on the battle against food insecurity, visit feedingamerica.org.
