People interested in helping with Des Moines CISS's expanded free meal program can contact Melissa Gradischnig at melissag@centraliowashelter.org.
Des Moines Area Religious Council Food Pantry Network and the Food Bank of Iowa are asking for monetary donations in order to buy perishable foods such as meats and dairy when their fridges regain power. People can donate online at foodbankiowa.org or dmarcunited.org.
The Iowa Region of the American Red Cross has also been providing items such as food, water, medical supplies and shelter for those in need. Josh Murray of the IRARC said they too prefer monetary donations, as it provides more flexibility to address specific needs. People can donate to disaster relief funds at redcross.org/donate, or call 1-800-RED-CROSS for more information.
Des Moines' newly formed non-profit The Supply Hive has been distributing meals and will continue throughout the coming weeks. The organization is asking for monetary donations via Venmo, @TheSupplyHive, or Cash App, $TheSupplyHive. Physical donations, such as trays, cutlery, and cups can be donated and dropped off at Urban Dreams during business hours.
The Disaster Recovery Fund will first provide rapid response grants to meet basic needs of our most vulnerable populations and will adapt to evolving needs during recovery, particularly those not being met by existing nonprofit, local, state and federal programs. Donate at the Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation website.
Dream City is collecting food donations to serve those in need. For more information, visit the Dream City Facebook page.
Volunteering
Volunteers can register through Volunteer Iowa at volunteeriowa.org.
The Supply Hive volunteers have been setting up charging stations and meal pick-ups throughout Des Moines. To volunteer with The Supply Hive, the organization can be emailed at thesuppyhive@gmail.com.
Disaster relief volunteer opportunities are available on United Way's Get Connected Volunteer Portal at volunteer.unitedwaydm.org.
