2023 Iowa Hunger Summit

The 2023 Iowa Hunger Summit, organized by the World Food Prize Foundation, brought together over 200 dedicated attendees in person, with a substantial virtual audience joining us online. On September 7, 2023, we collectively joined together behind a singular purpose: the fight against hunger and the promotion of accessible, nutritious food for every Iowan.

In this time of escalating challenge, our commitment to achieving zero hunger and the reduction of diet-related diseases remains steadfast. We firmly believe that every Iowan should have ready access to nourishing meals and never be hungry.

Themed 'Paths to Zero,' this year's Summit encouraged us to explore innovative, diverse solutions and fortify our collaborative bonds. It provided a platform for organizations and individuals spanning all 99 counties to unite, collaborate, and take decisive action. Together, we're forging new avenues and reinforcing the programs that are driving positive change in our communities.

Keynote speakers included:

• Kim Reynolds | Governor, State of Iowa
• Mike Naig | Secretary of Agriculture, State of Iowa
• Kelly Garcia | Director, Iowa Department of Health Human Services
• Mark Nook | President, University of Northern Iowa
• Barbara Wilson | President, University of Iowa
• Wendy Wintersteen | President, Iowa State University
• Nate Clark | President, John Deere Foundation
• Laura Eberlin | Global Corporate Social Responsibility Lead, John Deere
• Hans Schnekloth | President, Sunny View Farms
• Tom Mulholland | Owner, Mulholland Grocery??
• Mark Boeke, Chairman | Hubbard Care Center Board

Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds made a significant announcement during the 2023 Iowa Hunger Summit, revealing a $5 million grant allocation to four nonprofits dedicated to improving food distribution infrastructure across the state. These grants, awarded through the Iowa Food Insecurity Infrastructure Fund, aim to enhance accessibility to fresh, nutritious food for those in need. The Governor emphasized the importance of addressing food insecurity comprehensively, highlighting the role of these investments in modernizing facilities and better serving Iowans for years to come.

At the Iowa Hunger Summit, we were honored to present the 2023 Robert D. Ray Iowa SHARES Humanitarian Award to Mr. Simon Estes. Recognizing his lifetime commitment to alleviating suffering and uplifting spirits, this prestigious award acknowledges Mr. Estes' outstanding contributions. Through his inspiring work, he has made a significant impact in our community and beyond, embodying the spirit of service that the Iowa SHARES Award celebrates. Read more here:

Over forty organizations hosted a?session and/or exhibit space at the Summit, including:

• Blessman International
• Bread for the World
• Capital City Fruit
• Davenport Community Food Pantry
• Fairfield Farmers Market
• Feeding America
• Food Bank of Iowa
• Food Pantry at the University of Iowa
• Golden Magnolia Sanctuary
• Good Neighbor Emergency Assistance
• Growing Hope Globally
• Hubbard Care Center
• Hy-Line International
• Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship
• Iowa Department of Health and Human Services
• Iowa Farmers Union
• Iowa Food Bank Association
• Iowa Food System Coalition
• Iowa Healthiest State Initiative?
• Iowa Hunger Coalition
• Iowa State University
• Iowa Valley Resource Conservation and Development
• John Deere
• Maharishi International University Regenerative Organic Agriculture
• MercyOne
• Mulholland Grocery??
• Nevada Food At First
• Norman Borlaug Heritage Foundation?
• Panther Pantry at the University of Northern Iowa
• SALUD-Multicultural Health Coalition of Storm Lake
• School Nutrition Association of Iowa
• SHOP (Students Helping Our Peers)?
• Southeast Iowa Food Hub
• Story County Hunger Collaboration
• The Salvation Army of Story County Service Center
• United Way of Story County
• University of Iowa?
• University of Iowa Medical School
• University of Northern Iowa?
• Versova

Let's harness this momentum and continue working in concert to illuminate a brighter, hunger-free future for Iowa and beyond. Together, we have the power to effect meaningful change! ???? #IowaHungerSummit #ZeroHunger #CommunityImpact #FoodSecurity #Partnerships #WorldFoodPrizeFoundation