Iowa County’s Innovative Drive-Thru Model Tackles Veteran Food Insecurity
A new initiative in Wapello County, Iowa, is providing critical food assistance to veterans and their families, demonstrating a scalable model for addressing food insecurity within the veteran community. The program, highlighted on a recent episode of the Iowa Stops Hunger Podcast, has evolved from a mobile, outdoor operation to a streamlined drive-thru service, now serving individuals from multiple counties.
From Parking Lot to Purpose-Built Distribution
Four years ago, the effort began as a mobile food distribution located behind a mall in Ottumwa. Volunteers initially served veterans directly in their vehicles, braving the elements for months. “Almost four years ago, we were an outdoor distribution, and we were located behind the mall in Ottumwa, and it was still a mobile distribution, so the veterans and/or spouses of lost veterans never had to leave their car — and we did that for several months — and we were out in the elements. We did it all,” a senior official stated. Recognizing the challenges posed by Iowa’s harsh winters, organizers sought a more sustainable solution.
A nearby emergency management building was suggested, and quickly approved for use. This transition allowed for a more efficient and dignified distribution process. “So now we have [them] come [in] the car, and we have two stations … and then they drive right on into the building. We have the setup. There’s usually three to four stops with all of the different food items. The veteran and/or spouse never gets out of the car. Our volunteers load everything into the car for them. Then when they’re finished loading, there’s another overhead door, and they can just drive right on back out again. It’s pretty slick. We are so thankful for having that building,” the official explained. The county currently distributes food every first Thursday of the month, between 4 and 6 p.m.
Expanding Reach Beyond County Lines
What began as a local effort has quickly expanded its impact. In December alone, the program served 250 individuals, including veterans and surviving spouses. Organizers actively encourage spouses to utilize the service, recognizing their eligibility. The Food Bank of Iowa has been a crucial partner throughout the four-year initiative, providing a consistent supply of food each month, funded by the Ottumwa Legacy Group.
The program’s reach now extends far beyond Wapello County, drawing individuals from surrounding areas like Mount Pleasant, Sigourney, and Centerville. Recognizing the need, the program also provides home delivery services to veterans who are homebound or lack transportation. “We have names of veterans that are either homebound or have no vehicle and no way to have transportation to go through the distribution line, so we home-deliver to them,” the official noted.
The Complexities of Launching a Support Program
Establishing a program of this nature requires significant effort, including securing funding and building partnerships. One individual, formerly from Ottumwa and now residing in the Iowa City/Cedar Rapids area, recently reached out seeking guidance on replicating the model in his new community. “The first hurdle is somebody has to pay for the food, because they need to be a donor,” the official explained. The Food Bank of Iowa sources food through the USDA, leveraging bulk purchasing discounts.
The food boxes distributed each month are dynamic, containing a mix of dry goods representing the five basic food groups, along with fresh produce and frozen meat. “It’s not the same thing. There’s a dry box, and in that has a little bit of the five basic food groups. And then we have other items that will be added on. There’ll be fresh fruit or a fresh vegetable of some kind. There will also be a frozen meat of some kind,” the official said. The process, while demanding, is ultimately rewarding. “It is a lot of work, but it’s more than worth it.”
Addressing the Veteran Mindset of Self-Reliance
A significant challenge lies in overcoming the ingrained sense of self-reliance common among veterans. Organizers have observed a tendency for veterans to initially decline assistance, believing others are more deserving. “We were taught when we were serving in the military that we fend for ourselves. We make whatever we have work. I was not very surprised, I’ll put it that way, because it’s a typical veteran attitude of us inviting people, ‘Please come through the distribution, this is a wonderful service,’ and the veteran saying, ‘No, it’s OK. I’m all right. Just save it for somebody else that needs it worse than me,’” the official shared. Despite this initial hesitation, participation has grown significantly, from serving 60 individuals in the program’s early months to 250 in December.
A Message of Inclusivity and Support
The program’s core message is one of universal support, regardless of financial status. “I would invite any veteran, any spouse of a deceased veteran, to come. All we need to do is prove that you are a veteran. We do require that as our distribution line starts in the registration. We do require proof of [being a] veteran,” the official stated. Organizers emphasize the importance of camaraderie and appreciation, noting the gratitude expressed by those served, even in challenging weather conditions. “Some days we’re out there and it’s 95 degrees and it’s hot, and in December, we were all bundled up, and we actually had to modify it a little bit because that was the night that it was zero [degrees]. We modified the distribution where those of us doing the registration were standing right inside the building, so we’re trying to protect our volunteers.” Ultimately, the program’s aim is simple: “It doesn’t matter what category you think that you’re in financially or not, we’re here to help you.”
To learn more, visit the Veterans of Wapello County Facebook page.
