$0
Donation Program Total 2013-2026
$0
Raised in Feb for IMMJ
$0
Raised in Mar for GNEA
$0
Raised in Apr for Prairie Rivers of Iowa
$0
Raised in May for SILT
$0
Raised in June for WFAN
September 2026 Change for Community: Food at First
September’s Change for Community recipient is Food At First a local nonprofit that provides free meals and groceries to anyone who is hungry — no questions asked. Food at First serves a hot meal every day of the year at the First Christian Church in downtown Ames. In fact, they haven’t missed a meal in over 21 years! Almost all of the food comes from donations and rescued surplus from grocery stores, restaurants, and Iowa State University — helping both people and the planet by reducing food waste.
In addition to daily meals, Food at First runs the Free Market, a perishable food pantry open three times a week (Monday and Thursday evenings, and Saturday mornings). In 2024, the Free Market served 58,600 individuals, while the Free Meal program provided 34,000 meals. (and it’s even more this year!!)
Food at First operates almost entirely on donations, with costs averaging just $1.95 per meal. That means a $200 gift can feed 102 people in need.
Learn more or donate at foodatfirst.com.
