United Way of Central Iowa Shares Progress on Community-Wide Food Security Plan

More than two years after helping launch the Central Iowa Food Security Plan, United Way of Central Iowa continues to bring partners together to improve food access, strengthen collaboration, and address the root causes of food insecurity across Polk, Dallas, and Warren counties.

Developed in partnership with the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines, the plan was informed by nonprofits, funders, policymakers, advocates, and individuals with lived experience. Since its launch, the initiative has served as a roadmap for community-wide action aimed at creating a more food-secure central Iowa.

Through ongoing leadership and collaboration, United Way of Central Iowa continues to support implementation of the plan's recommendations. Guided by the Food Security Planning Committee and advanced through the OpportUNITY Food Insecurity Workgroup, organizations across sectors are working together to improve service navigation, strengthen relationships among food providers, elevate the voices of neighbors with lived experience, and identify ways to address barriers that prevent families from accessing food and related services.

Community Navigator Pilot Project Expands Access to Support
One example of this collaborative work is the Community Navigator Pilot Project, which connects neighbors to food resources and additional support services through trusted community-based organizations.

Community navigators currently serve at:
•    Urbandale Food Pantry
•    Johnston Partnership Place
•    Knock and Drop Iowa
•    Global Neighbors
•    WeLIFT
•    DMARC-ket

The pilot helps neighbors access available resources, strengthens collaboration among organizations, and gathers valuable data to inform future food security efforts across the region. The program is scheduled to continue through March 2027.

"United Way of Central Iowa believes lasting change happens when organizations work together around a shared goal," said Joseph Jones, Chief Community Impact Officer at United Way of Central Iowa. "The Food Security Plan provided a framework for action, and we're proud of the progress being made through the collective commitment of partners across central Iowa."

Why This Work Matters
Food insecurity remains a significant challenge for many families across central Iowa. According to United Way of Central Iowa's 2026 Community Report:
•    1 in 10 central Iowans experiences food insecurity.
•    14.5% of central Iowa children are food insecure.
•    1 in 3 households cannot afford basic needs.

These realities underscore the importance of continued collaboration and investment in long-term solutions. The Central Iowa Food Security Plan recognizes that no single organization can solve food insecurity alone. Instead, meaningful progress depends on bringing together nonprofit organizations, businesses, funders, government leaders, and community members around a shared vision for change.

"The Central Iowa Food Security Plan created a roadmap for our community, but United Way of Central Iowa has helped it remain an active, ongoing effort rather than a document on a shelf," said Tami Nielsen, President and CEO of Food Bank of Iowa. "By convening partners, encouraging collaboration, and keeping the focus on shared outcomes, United Way is helping create a stronger and more connected food security network across central Iowa."

Learn More
Ensuring everyone has reliable access to nutritious food requires ongoing collaboration and innovative solutions. Through the Central Iowa Food Security Plan, community partners are working together to build a stronger, more connected community where all people have the opportunity to thrive.

For a deeper look at the challenges, opportunities and partnerships driving this work, listen to the Community Difference Makers podcast, presented by United Way of Central Iowa and Bankers Trust.

Learn more about the Central Iowa Food Security Plan at unitedwaydm.org/food, and listen to the podcast on YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts.