The Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA) will celebrate 10 consecutive years of giving back on Giving Tuesday by partnering with Fareway Stores and Central Iowa Shelter & Services to provide breakfast and fellowship to Iowans experiencing homelessness.
The annual event will take place Tuesday, December 1, with volunteers preparing and serving a hearty breakfast while offering guests an opportunity to enjoy a warm meal and connect with members of the community.
This year, the outreach will expand beyond Des Moines, with efforts also reaching individuals experiencing homelessness in Ottumwa, Grinnell and Ames.
In Des Moines, breakfast will be served from 6:30 to 8:30 a.m. at Central Iowa Shelter & Services, located at 1420 Mulberry Street. Fareway Stores will provide and prepare more than 100 pounds of bacon, 50 pounds of sausage patties and additional breakfast favorites.
Iowa pork producers will assist with serving breakfast and distributing care bags containing stocking hats, hand warmers, lip balm and pork sticks.
The annual tradition reflects the Iowa pork industry’s We Care commitment, demonstrating how producers can support their communities through acts of kindness, nourishment and compassion.
Doug Gruver, an IPPA board member and pig farmer from Sully, said the event provides an opportunity for producers to give back and show their support for those in need.
The tradition began after Central Iowa Shelter & Services staff noticed that serving guests a hearty bacon breakfast helped them start their day on a more positive note. What started as a simple gesture has grown into a decade-long partnership bringing together pork producers, volunteers and community members.
Fareway Stores CEO Reynolds W. Cramer said the partnership reflects the company’s belief that everyone deserves a warm meal, a welcoming smile and the dignity of knowing they matter.
Melissa O’Neil of Central Iowa Shelter & Services also emphasized that generosity extends beyond financial donations, noting that sharing a meal and taking time to connect with others can make a meaningful difference.
Community leaders and volunteers are encouraged to participate by helping prepare breakfast, serve guests or assist with cleanup. Volunteers are welcome to contribute as much time as their schedules allow.
As the Iowa Pork Producers Association celebrates its 10th consecutive year participating in Giving Tuesday, the effort continues to highlight the importance of community involvement and helping fellow Iowans.
Source: Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA).
