Coming Together for Our Neighbors: Iowa Counties Take Action to Fight Hunger During Federal Shutdown
Across the United States, families are feeling the strain and uncertainty caused by the ongoing federal government shutdown and the resulting delays in SNAP benefits. Here in Iowa, that uncertainty is being met with action, compassion, and a reminder of what community truly means.
This week, the Linn County Board of Supervisors voted to allocate the entire $80,000 from the Fiscal Year 2026 Witwer Trust Grant Fund to the HACAP Food Reservoir. These funds will go directly toward purchasing food for Linn County residents ensuring families can put meals on the table during a time when every bit of help matters.
Every dollar will stay local—feeding neighbors through credits issued to Linn County pantry partners based on the number of people they serve. These credits allow partners to access purchased foods at no cost—no fees, just food reaching the people who need it most.
This decision works hand in hand with Governor Kim Reynolds’ statewide matching program, which will match up to $1 million in donations made by Iowans to regional food banks. By allocating the full amount now, Linn County is maximizing the reach and impact of local resources.
The City of Cedar Rapids is stepping up, too, issuing a proclamation to allocate up to $25,000 to HACAP’s Food Reservoir to support food access during this period of need. Together, these actions strengthen the safety net for our neighbors and show what’s possible when communities act with heart.
And it’s not just Linn County—our other counties across the HACAP service area continue to mobilize, finding creative solutions to help feed their neighbors, too. From innovative partnerships to local fundraising efforts, communities are stepping up to ensure no one goes hungry during this time of uncertainty.
All across the country, people are facing hard choices—but here, our neighbors are choosing to lift one another up. Local governments are demonstrating that even in moments of national uncertainty, compassion at the community level can be the most powerful force of all.
About the Witwer Trust Grant Program
The Witwer Trust Grant Program was created by Weaver Witwer, a Linn County farmer, grocer, and landowner who dedicated his life to helping others. When he passed away in 1979, he left a legacy that continues to nourish this community today. Each year, $80,000 from the trust is awarded to local nonprofits through a competitive process to benefit Linn County residents.
This year, those dollars are doing exactly what Weaver intended—feeding people. Similar action was taken in 2008, when the Board directed Witwer funds to flood recovery efforts during another time of great need. These funds are not tax dollars—they are Weaver Witwer’s lasting gift to the community, a reminder that generosity can carry us through even the hardest seasons.
How You Can Help
While local governments are doing their part, community support is essential. Every donation made to HACAP now not only helps families access food today but will also be matched through the state’s program—doubling the impact.
Across all nine counties we serve, generosity continues to shine. Even in times of uncertainty, we are strongest when we stand together, support our neighbors, and act with heart.
Learn more or contribute at www.hacap.org/donate
