March 31, 2026
The Grinnell Food Coalition (GFC) has awarded $18,300 in Harvest Grants to eight organizations working to address food insecurity and strengthen local food systems in Grinnell and across Poweshiek County.
The Harvest Grant program supports existing programs, projects, and new initiatives that improve food access for community members. During this grant cycle, the coalition received 11 applications and was able to fully or partially fund eight projects that directly support individuals and families experiencing food insecurity.
Funding recipients include: Grinnell Community Early Learning Center; Brooklyn Community Food Bank; Renewed Hope Home Furnishings; Treasured By God Ministry- Treasure Chest Food Pantry; Northeast Iowa Area Agency on Aging; Poweshiek County Veteran’s Affair; The Iowa Kitchen; Malcom Food Pantry.
“These grants reflect the incredible work being done across our county to ensure people have access to food,” said Jill Harris, Grinnell College Program Coordinator and a member of the Grinnell Food Coalition Steering Committee. “By supporting organizations already serving families, seniors, and veterans, we are strengthening the network of programs that help meet immediate needs while building a more resilient local food system.”
The Grinnell Food Coalition brings together community partners to collaborate on food access solutions, share resources, and provide funding to organizations addressing hunger across Poweshiek County. The coalition also convenes regular community partner meetings to connect organizations and individuals working to improve food access in the region. Community partner meetings are held the first Wednesday, every other month at the Foundation Offices at Ahrens Park at 8:00am and via zoom. Anyone in the community is encouraged to attend.
The Harvest Grant is one of several funding opportunities offered through the coalition, including the GFC Seed Grant, a rolling grant designed to address emerging or urgent food access needs.
The Grinnell Food Coalition is a program of the Claude W. and Dolly Ahrens Foundation.
For more information about the Grinnell Food Coalition and its grant programs, visit the foundation website https://ahrensfamilyfoundation.org/grinnelfoodcoalition/ or contact Jennifer Cogley at jennifer@ahrensfamilyfoundation.org.
