DES MOINES — Community leaders, Fareway Stores, and the Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA) joined Central Iowa Shelter & Services (CISS) today for the ninth annual Giving Tuesday breakfast, preparing and serving hundreds of warm meals to individuals experiencing homelessness across three Iowa communities.

The early-morning event brought volunteers to CISS in Des Moines, while additional meals were distributed at The Bridge Home in Ames and the Empowerment Command Center in Grinnell.

IPPA also provided hundreds of backpacks filled with stocking hats, socks, and pork sticks.

"Food insecurity and homelessness remain real challenges for too many Iowans," said Chris Bellcock, regional director for the Iowa Pork Producers Association. "Giving Tuesday allows us to demonstrate through actions, not just words, how much Iowa's pig farmers care about their communities."

Fareway contributed a full breakfast spread, including 1,200 slices of bacon, 50 pounds of sausage patties, 132 pounds of eggs, 1,050 pancakes, fresh fruit, milk, juice, coffee, and more.

“Giving Tuesday is a powerful reminder of the impact we can make when we come together as a community. Fareway is proud to partner with the Iowa Pork Producers and Central Iowa Shelter & Services for this annual breakfast event, serving individuals with gratitude who rely on the shelter during the cold season,” said Reynolds Cramer, CEO of Fareway Stores, Inc. “It’s an honor to stand alongside these organizations in providing warmth, nourishment, and hope.”

CISS CEO Melissa O’Neil said the partnership demonstrates the heart of Iowa’s agricultural and business community. “This is by far our favorite event of the entire year,” she said. “It's our opportunity to really challenge that servant heart with our elected officials, and the Iowa Pork Producers and Fareway really stepping up and leading the way in that effort. Nothing better than waking up to a fresh pot of coffee and some aromatherapy with bacon on the table.”

IPPA staff and volunteers joined members of the Des Moines Police Department, Des Moines Fire Department, and city council in serving the meals to attendees at Central Iowa Shelter & Services

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About the Iowa Pork Producers Association 

The mission of the Iowa Pork Producers Association is promoting, educating, and providing a leading voice for a sustainable, socially responsible, and globally competitive pork industry. Visit iowapork.org/WeCare for more information.

About Central Iowa Shelter & Services (CISS)

Central Iowa Shelter & Services is the largest low-barrier shelter in Iowa. Its mission is to provide shelter, meals and support services to adults experiencing homelessness and to facilitate their move toward self-sufficiency. Learn more at centraliowashelter.org.

About Fareway 

Fareway Stores, Inc. is a growing Midwest grocery company currently operating 143 grocery store locations in Iowa, Illinois, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, and South Dakota. Fareway holds family values in the highest regard, demonstrating integrity, fairness, and honesty in relationships with customers, employees, vendors, and suppliers.