The Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA) will donate 4,200 pounds of ground pork to the Food Bank of Iowa in Des Moines on Tuesday, in conjunction with the Sack Hunger partnership with the football team at Iowa State University in Ames.
IPPA, Farm Credit Services of America, and the Iowa Egg Council teamed up with Iowa State Cyclones football during the 2023 season. Each time the Cyclones defense tackled, or sacked, an opponent’s quarterback behind the line of scrimmage, the respective agricultural groups committed donations of 200 pounds of pork, $1,000, and 200 dozen eggs.
The Cyclones’ 21 sacks led to a total of 4,200 pounds of pork, $21,000, and 4,200 dozen eggs.
IPPA President Matt Gent, a pig farmer from Wellman, will help present the pork donation, along with Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig.
“Sack Hunger is just one of many ways that Iowa’s pork producers care for their communities,” Gent said. “Especially in today’s economy with extremely high food prices, pork is an economical source of protein, a good quality meat, and a great way to feed a family. Whenever Iowa’s pork producers have the opportunity to help fight food insecurity, we’re ready to step up.”
Tuesday is also National Ag Day, a celebration of the contributions of American farmers to feed the world. Activities across the county are dedicated to increasing public awareness about agriculture’s vital role in providing a sustainable food supply, creating job opportunities, and contributing to the nation’s overall economic stability.
Iowa leads the nation in pork production. One out of every 10 jobs in the state is connected to Iowa’s pork industry, according to a 2020 industry study.
