Feed Iowa First is a grass-roots community of businesses, faith organizations, schools, farmers and volunteers that unite in relationship-based service to help our neighbors to ‘Combat Food Insecurity by Growing Food and Farmers’. We believe access to fresh, healthy produce can and does transform lives. Fresh, healthy food is a basic human right, and ensuring access to it is key to building vibrant communities where citizens can reach their full human potential. Founded in 2011 by Sonia Kendrick, Feed Iowa First began as a summer project to grow and provide fresh vegetables to food banks. The Christian & Missionary Alliance Church in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, was Sonia’s first partner, letting her use 1/2 acre of land to plant her garden. The response from the Cedar Rapids community and from people who received the fresh produce was amazing—and led Sonia to realize that her model of urban farming could make a significant difference in Iowa’s food system. By partnering with schools, faith organizations, community agencies and corporations of all sizes, Feed Iowa First finds open spaces to grow fresh produce that’s harvested to supply those in need with nutritious food. In 2020, Feed Iowa First donated 48,000 lbs of fresh produce to pantries across Linn County. Feed Iowa First also helps support beginning farmers through training and investments that ensure the next generation of farmers and food production.