A local group of dedicated volunteers is working to battle food insecurity through the distribution of Local Food Purchasing Assistance food boxes in Southwest Iowa.
L.I.F.E 5B, 501(c)(3) organization, began as a group of friends who shared a deep passion for growing their own food and homesteading along with the burning desire to help others.
The group meets monthly and has a goal of ensuring families in Southwest Iowa have access to healthy and nutritious foods. Members of the group aim to support anyone in need while recognizing that traditional forms of assistance might not always reach every segment of the population.
In reaching its objectives, L.I.F.E 5B seeks to foster food security, education and collaboration with southwest Iowa communities. The group works to support local farmers and producers to ensure that food boxes are filled with fresh locally sourced produce. The programs are designed to empower individuals and families by providing them with the tools and resources they need to thrive.
The Local Food Purchasing Assistance program (LFPA) is made possible by federal funding from the Build Back Better Act, which will be expiring this year.
This nonprofit is currently fundraising for 2025 because the LFPA money will be gone. The group is currently supplying food boxes for 80 Southwest Iowa residents and hopes to help many more in future years. Anyone who would like to donate to this group or wants involved in some way can make contact at Life5b712@gmail.com or mail donations to: LIFE 5b PO Box 20, Farragut Iowa 51639.
Here’s a little bit more about the food boxes.
Supporting Local: Produce is purchased from local small farmers. What’s in box depends on what’s available.
Applications: The application process is closed for this season. Residents can be added to a waiting list. Send an email message to Life5b712@gmail.com to join or ask questions.
Confirmation: If you receive a call or email confirming you’re on the list, then you’re all set! You will be contacted on the Thursday before a Saturday pickup/delivery with details. If you are not contacted, that means you won’t receive a box that week.
Rotating Groups: There are four different groups of recipients that rotate each week. If you see social media posts about boxes and you didn’t receive one, it’s just not your group’s turn this week.
Patience Please: The program is managed by a small but dedicated team of local volunteers. The volunteers are doing their best to serve everyone, so patience is appreciated.
Article information submitted by Teresa Crecelius.
