DMARC Food Pantry Network
DMARC is an interfaith organization composed of over 130 congregations of many faiths whose mission is to work together to meet the basic needs for the greater Des Moines community. DMARC manages a Food Pantry Network of 14 partnering pantry sites, a Mobile Food Pantry, and home delivery service. It is the largest food pantry network in the state with locations in Ankeny, Clive, Des Moines., Johnston, Urbandale and West Des Moines.
DMARC relies on hundreds of volunteers to fulfill the mission of providing basic needs to the people of the larger Des Moines community.
Volunteer opportunities include:
sorting food donations at their warehouse
assisting clients at the mobile food pantry or at the various food pantries
providing non-contact food deliveries to individuals in need
picking up donations from the Red Barrels at various grocery stores
serving on a committee or volunteering at a special event.
It is a unique opportunity to put one’s faith into action. Jesus said in Matthew 25 “ Whatever you do for the least of my brother you do for me”. Here is a chance to help fellow members in one’s community. It is learning and listening to the stories of those in need. It builds understanding and bridges, cuts through stereotypes and helps to grow one’s own faith. It can lead one to work not only to feed the hungry, but to work for justice in the system so that more people are able to provide the basic needs for themselves and their families.
This volunteer opportunity would mostly require free time during the week, during the hours the food pantries are open for clients. Collecting produce and donations at the Des Moines Farmer’s Market requires Saturday morning availability when market is being held.
Visit their website for more complete information.
Contact Amanda Parkins the Volunteer & Outreach Manger at aparkins@dmarcunited.org.
If interested specifically knowing more about the Catholic Charities Food Pantry at 1815 Hubbell contact Tom Leto, Program Manger at 515-262-7290.
IMPACT FOOD PANTRY (Ankeny)
The mission is “reducing the barriers and burdens that families in poverty experience by increasing access to essential needs.” They provide disaster, utility, housing as well as food assistance.
It serves community members in Boone, Warren, Polk, Jasper and Marion counties. 7,462 families received emergency food last year. 4,003 volunteer hours were recorded last year to help serve the needs. The monthly food pantry provides a 2-3 day provision of groceries for families. Families can shop for themselves or chose to have food delivered.
Volunteers are needed to deliver food to families throughout Polk County, assist clients at pantries in Ankney, Drake or Boone, be a front desk greeter at all the pantry locations and be substitute box truck drivers.
It is a unique opportunity to put one’s faith into action. Jesus said in Matthew 25 “Whatever you do for the least of my brother you do for me”. Here is a chance to help fellow members in one’s community. It is learning and listening to the stories of those in need. It builds understanding and bridges, cuts through stereotypes and helps to grow one’s own faith. It can lead one to work not only to feed the hungry, but to work for justice in the system so that more people are able to provide the basic needs for themselves and their families.
Daytime during the week when pantry open.
Go to the website to download and complete application or contact the Community Engagement & Volunteer Coordinator at volunteers@impactcap.org.