“I don’t think anyone should NOT be doing this activity. For a school of our size, this small, being able to do it was unbelievable. I think that’s a testament to how much we care about projects, the FFA and about everything we do.”

“Meals from the Heartland is THE BEST place to be a volunteer! I am so impressed with the staff and all the volunteers that show up every Tuesday morning when I am there to volunteer. It is a great group to spend a Tuesday morning with, and occasionally I volunteer for other events.

So many food insufficient people in our community both local and worldwide and this is my way of giving back – time and quarters! Since beginning my volunteer ‘job’ at Meals from the Heartland, I have ‘trained’ myself NOT to spend quarters. The ingredients for each meals cost 20 cents, so I donate all my quarters. So come join us! Pack meals, fill a volunteer support spot, save your quarters!! See you soon!”

“I am so glad that I have the opportunity to volunteer with Meals from the Heartland. It is so rewarding to represent MftH at the labeling events held at various retirement facilities around the Metro. Through my volunteer efforts, at these events, MftH is able to provide another opportunity to volunteer for folks who, for various reasons, are unable to package meals, plus I have met so many awesome people, who have greatly enriched my life. Through volunteering for MftH, I know that I am making a contribution toward feeding Iowans and others across the US who are food insecure, including those affected by the recent natural disasters and hungry people internationally.”

Sergio’s community was hit hard by the recent earthquakes in Mexico, and many of his neighbors lost their homes. After receiving some of our meals, he was curious about where the food came from. He researched us and was touched as he read about Meals from the Heartland’s mission and saw pictures of the many volunteers who made it possible. In his own words:

“We got some of your meals after the earthquake here in Mexico and I feel truly grateful for the help we received from you and the people that kept sending support after the disaster. I have no words to express how moved I am from your work…I looked for your organization to thank you and let you know we truly appreciate the effort of all volunteers.”

“Hiya! I just wanted to take the time to Thank You All! I’m 3 years new to Illinois but don’t know much about this state because I’m disabled and unfortunately on a strict budget. I go to the Salvation Army Food Pantry in Bloomington here. I’m enjoying the Taco Mac that I received there as part of my “food package.” It was really delicious with my summer sausage! I always thank those who volunteer their time and services. But I never thought to thank those people where the food actually comes from. As part of my “new” late resolution, I’m doing it now! So a BIG THANK YOU to ALL of the people who made, put together, delivered, sorted, packed, etc.!!! Believe me it’s extremely appreciated! So with a happy tummy I say Thank You one more time!”

Enjoying Three Years of Volunteering for Those in Need

Barb Keck spends winter months in warmer weather, but when she returns to Iowa, she joins her old and new friends, every Wednesday, putting expiration date labels on Meals from the Heartland bags that help to feed the starving.

“Volunteers are told each week of the amount of packaging that has been done and where the packages have been sent. They keep us up to date to remind us that we are helping in this fight and making a difference,” Barb says. “It is amazing how many meals are sent out, whether it’s just to the Des Moines area or around the world.”

Barb, who has volunteered with us for three years, finds the experience upbeat and rewarding, because she knows that she is helping a starving child or a family in need somewhere in the world.

“When volunteering with Meals from the Heartland, you are doing what you can to help other people. There is always something for you to do. It makes such a big different, not just in Des Moines, but around the world. It’s something we can each do to help,” Barb says.

The impact that volunteers like Barb make is priceless, and we couldn’t do this without them. “When you hear about hunger and realize how bad it is, you feel the need to help out and the need to do something about it,” she says.

That’s why she will continue to volunteer and donate to Meals from the Heartland. “What Meals from the Heartland is doing is great, and I am so glad to be a part of it,” Barb says.