As part of its Feeding Iowans Task Force, Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds announced the launch of the state’s Pass the Pork program this week.
Pass the Pork connects Iowa pork producers to food banks and local processors to help them get more pork in the hands of those who need it.
The program is supported by the Iowa Pork Producers Association and the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship.
“From family farms to the family’s dinner table, our entire food supply chain has been impacted by COVID-19,” Gov. Reynolds said. “‘Pass the Pork’ is an innovative partnership to put Iowa pork on the tables of families in need of food security while creating a new destination for pork which might otherwise go to waste. I’m grateful to Iowa’s pork producers, processors and others for stepping up to make this possible.”
The program officially begins on May 1 when the first donated pigs are delivered and Iowans can donate to help pay for processing, storing and delivery here.
“The supply chain issues are challenging Iowa’s pig farmers, but we also see our friends and neighbors struggling with jobs and wondering how they will put food on the table, too,” said Mike Paustian, the president of the Iowa Pork Producers Association. “This program will help bring pork to our local communities when they need it most.”