CLIVE, Iowa – Iowa pork producers are making a meaningful impact in communities across the state through the continued success of their Pork in the Pantry program.
In 2026, the Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA) partnered with county pork producer organizations and local volunteers to deliver more than 25,000 pounds of pork, providing more than 100,000 servings of high-quality protein to Iowans in need. The effort spanned 70 counties and supported 144 local food pantries statewide.
Through Pork in the Pantry, IPPA provides up to $1,000 in reimbursement per county pork producer organization to purchase and donate pork to local food pantries. In 2026, IPPA contributed $67,309, helping generate a total statewide donation of $79,656 thanks to additional support at the county level. All of the pork is purchased locally.
Here’s a full breakdown of the 2026 Pork in the Pantry numbers:
- Counties Participating: 70
- IPPA Contribution: $67,309
- Total Donation Cost: $79,656
- Total Pounds of Pork: 25,350 lbs.
- Total Servings: 101,399
- Total Food Pantries Impacted: 144
“Pork in the Pantry is a powerful example of how Iowa pig farmers live out our We Care principles every day,” said IPPA President Dean Frazer of Conrad, Iowa. “When you see 70 counties come together to provide more than 100,000 servings of protein, it shows the strength of our communities and the commitment our farmers have to helping neighbors in need. This is about more than pork. It’s about making a real difference close to home.”
Food pantries across Iowa continue to face strong demand, particularly for protein. Programs like Pork in the Pantry help fill that need by providing a consistent source of nutritious, high-quality pork to families.
In addition to organized county efforts, individual pork producers and community partners are stepping up in new ways to expand the program’s reach.
One of many examples of county pork producer organizations stepping up was the Hamilton County Pork Producers donating 550 pounds of pork loin roasts and 400 pounds of ground pork locally, providing a significant boost to three local food pantries.
“This is what community is all about. Being able to donate pork we raise and help supply three local pantries with pork loin roasts and ground pork is something we take a lot of pride in,” said Gene Gourley, Hamilton County pork producer. “It’s a small way we can support our neighbors.”
The Clay County Pork Producers provided $2,000 worth of pork chops to the Clay County Upper Des Moines Opportunity (UDMO) food pantry.
“Being able to offer pork gives people more than just a meal, it gives them something substantial and nourishing, and that is not always easy for us to provide. This donation of 800 porkchops (420 pounds) is so beneficial to our panty and the clients we serve. We are so appreciative of our partnership with the Iowa Pork Producers Association and Clay County Pork Producers. It is community partners like you that support our mission here at UDMO-Helping People. Changing Lives,” said Teri Chinn, outreach specialist with Clay County UDMO.
In Dubuque County, local pig farmers banded together with businesses and service organizations to donate nearly 2,200 pounds of pork to four local food pantries. Spearheaded by Wayne Demmer and his family, the effort included support from the Dubuque Knights of Columbus, Pipestone Veterinary Clinic, Fidelity Bank, and others.
“With IPPA’s support, it prompted others to step in and donate as well,” Demmer said. “We did a lot better than expected. I was just hoping to cover the processing.”
The group plans to continue donations later this year and is exploring ways to expand the effort into surrounding counties.
As participation continues to grow, Pork in the Pantry remains a meaningful example of Iowa pig farmers’ commitment to caring for their communities, ensuring families across the state have access to safe, nutritious food.
For more information about Pork in the Pantry, visit IowaPork.org.
