Feeding Futures

Fighting food insecurity with innovative action. A story series sponsored by Principal® Foundation

Closing the Gap on Hunger: Urbandale Food Pantry ensures no family faces food insecurity alone

“Food insecurity is rarely about food,” says Patty Sneddon-Kisting, CEO of the Urbandale Food Pantry. “It’s about the impossible decisions families confront in today’s world.”

The need for food is growing fast. In February 2022, the pantry served 857 families. By November 2024, that number had jumped to 2,000—and it has stayed there ever since. Older Iowans are among those most in need, with more than 750 receiving support regularly.

The pantry’s success comes from a community working together. About 250 volunteers stock shelves, distribute food, and manage donations, while local partners extend the pantry’s reach. In 2024 alone, the pantry distributed 1.8 million pounds of food and rescued 670,000 pounds that would have gone to landfills.

To keep up with rising demand, the pantry launched a capital campaign in 2024 and opened a new two-story facility in April 2025. The first floor features a shopping area and an “anytime room” for daily food access, while the second floor hosts partners such as Broadlawns, WIC and Project Iowa.

“When it comes to filling gaps in the community, doing nothing was not an option,” Sneddon-Kisting says. The $3.5 million capital campaign continues, supporting expanded services and the new location. “Ultimately, we’re creating a community hub that helps families when life throws unexpected challenges their way.”

With donors, volunteers, and community partners working together, the Urbandale Food Pantry proves that collaboration and care can make a real difference—and that no family has to face hunger alone.

Learn how to give or volunteer at www.urbandalefoodpantry.org.