Commonly Asked Questions!

Meals from the Heartland (MftH) originated from a month-long packaging event during Lent in 2007 in West Des Moines, Iowa, where more than 1 million meals were packaged. After this positive experience, a few volunteers asked the golden question of each other, “What if…we gathered thousands and were able to feed millions?”

In 2008, that small group encouraged more than 12,000 Iowans to come to Hy-Vee Hall in Des Moines where they packaged more than 4 million meals. The numbers continued to climb every year, and the world is a better place because of the commitment of our caring volunteers!

MftH is not affiliated with any one religious organization, but it is a faith-based organization. We work with faith communities of all denominations.

We work to bring diverse communities - such as businesses, organizations, schools, churches, individuals and families - together in an effort to provide food to the hungry around the world.

Yes. We have received the designation from the Internal Revenue Service as a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. Contributions received by MftH are tax deductible. Our TIN/EIN is 26-3443290.

Our Hearty Pack meals contain rice, soy protein, dried vegetables, vitamins and minerals. The meals were formulated by a nutritionist to be accepted by many cultures around the world and by those who are malnourished. When cooked in boiling water, the rice expands, the soy adds protein and the dried vegetables and vitamin powder provide additional micro-nutrients that are needed. In addition, we package Taco Mac (taco flavored macaroni & cheese) meals that are distributed here in the United States. Each meal package includes 6-8 servings.

As a nonprofit organization, we are governed by a volunteer Board of Directors and partner with distribution organizations to ensure that food can be safely transported and distributed to people in need, as intended.

Locally, we partner with food banks and pantries that are taking action to feed the hungry in Iowa, providing nourishment and support to individuals and families in need. These organizations include the Des Moines Area Religious Council (DMARC) food pantry network as well as dozens of church-affiliated food pantries. In 2025 alone, more than 2 million meals were distributed across the state of Iowa. Going forward, 10% of Meals from the Heartland's overall production will stay to help our neighbors facing food insecurity in Iowa. 

Our food reaches people in Iowa, the United States and around the entire world. Requests from Iowa food banks always take priority.

Around 90 cents of every dollar goes toward our meal packaging process. We have been blessed to have volunteer support and partners of in-kind services that help limit overhead expenses. We will package and share as many meals as our generous donors fund.

Yes. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that is recognized by United Way and other 3rd party providers as an opportunity to receive designated contributions. We also work with Donor Advised Funds (DAF) and Community Foundations!

We seek and receive in-kind donations through marketing, promotion, printing, packaging materials, warehouse equipment, transportation, and businesses who send their teams to volunteer. 

To learn more about Meals from the Heartland, please contact us.

Donating to MftH is easy! You may donate online or send your contribution to the following address.

Meals from the Heartland
357 Lincoln St.
West Des Moines, Iowa 50265