Our May Change for Community recipients are Food at First and Good Neighbor Emergency Assistance. As thousands of people in our community are affected by the rapid changes due to the spread of COVID-19, we have chosen to support these organizations who are providing food options, rental assistance, and more for families in our community. Round up at the registers and through Curbside Pickup today!

food at first

Covid-19 FAF Free Meal changes: Meals are pre-selected carry-out and may be picked up outside the main FAF entrance in the parking lot at First Christian Church, 611 Clark, Ames, IA. Volunteers pack meals daily and the meal times will not change. See Food at First’s Web Site for more info.

Meals: Sun – Fri 5:45 PM – 6:15 PM, Sat 11:30 PM – 12:15 PM

Stay 6 feet apart or more in line outside. Since meals are pre-selected patrons are served rapidly

Covid-19 FAF Free Market changes: Free Market are pre-selected carry-out only at the Main entrance to FAF, outside in the parking lot at 611 Clark. Volunteers will pre-bag staples and fresh produce.

Free Market Hours: Mon – Thu 4:30 – 5:30 pm, Sat 10 – 11 am

Stay 6 feet apart or more in line outside. Since grocery items are pre-selected and pre-bagged, patrons are served rapidly

Cash donations are needed now more than ever. FAF will have additional expenses because of coronavirus impact and is already seeing more need.
You can directly donate here via credit/debit card, PayPal or send checks to:

Food At First
PO Box 87
Ames IA 50010

On behalf of the hundreds of community members served by Good Neighbor Emergency Assistance, thank you for your continued support in helping us provide financial assistance to Story County households who can not meet their basic financial needs to cover housing, utilities, food, and gasoline.

These are confusing, anxiety-filled, and uncertain times for all of us. But this doesn’t mean the important work of providing emergency financial assistance is less important now than in the past. Our services just look a little different during this time of uneasiness and uncertainty. Here’s what we’re doing:

  1. Our physical office is closed to prevent the spread of Covid-19
  2. We are taking applications for assistance via phone and email
  3. We implemented a no-contact assistance delivery service for clients
  4. We are receiving more first-time applications than ever before
  5. We are working with other Story County agencies to stay up to date on developing needs and resources in our communities
  6. Compassion, non-bias, and kindness are still a part of every interaction

While our physical doors may be locked, your support means our important work can continue. These program changes have not been easy, and our staff, board, and volunteers have been incredible at adapting. We have had to get creative with our programs, and will continue to work towards our goal of offering hope and help in times of crisis and emergency.