Despite distributing and “rescuing” a record-breaking amount of food in 2019, Food Bank of Iowa is still working to fill pantries and fully meet the needs of Iowans struggling with food insecurity, the organization announced. Last year, Food Bank of Iowa acquired and delivered more than 17 million pounds of food, a 30% increase from the previous year. Of that, more than 4.6 million pounds were distributed in Polk County. The organization also contributed to a record amount of food rescued through retail donation collaborations that kept more than 4.7 million pounds of quality food out of landfills and delivered it to Iowans in need — a 34% year-over-year increase. Nearly 12% of Iowans live in poverty and, according to a study by Feeding America, more than 340,000 of Iowans struggle with food insecurity. “I am proud of the partnership we have with donors, volunteers, community food pantries and our team for reaching this milestone, but we can’t stop to celebrate,” said Michelle Book, president and CEO of Food Bank of Iowa. For more information about donating or volunteering, click here.