Feed Iowa First, a food insecurity nonprofit raised $26,322 in donations for the organization at their fundraiser, Global Graze: Small Bites, Big Change, allowing for more growth and distribution of free, fresh food to the community.
Over 200 community members attended the event in Cedar Rapids on Sept. 17 in order to raise funds for the organization and celebrate Feed Iowa First’s 15th anniversary. All proceeds of the event will be used to further support the organization’s work in the future.
At the event, farmers were paired with local restaurants to create international street food dishes that highlight the products grown by the organization. Restaurants such as Saatvik Swaad, Black Sheep Social Club, Big Grove Brewery, and The Hip-Stir returned for the event, while newcomers like Goldfinch Tap + Eatery, Lamb’s Quarter Livestock, and Snacky Mini Mart also joined in the celebration. Each restaurant created a globally known dish with the products grown by farmers from the organization’s Equitable Land Access program.
“Global Graze was a beautiful evening celebrating hardworking farmers, local chefs, and the partnership between the two that brings local food to life. We were also able to celebrate fifteen years of Feed Iowa First history through photos, videos and stories documenting our growth into a stable community resource for food insecure households across Linn County,” said Feed Iowa First’s Interim Executive Director Alora Kraus in a news release.
Afro-Iowa Unity Farm’s Elouth Imani said, “Participating in Global Graze as a farmer was a great experience. Farming is not easy, and finding customers who want to buy your produce can be even harder. Yesterday’s event was nice because I connected with restaurants, different organizations, and direct consumers about my products. When they tried it, they said it was amazing. I made contacts that give me hope for a good future. I would like to see this event grow every year and give us more opportunities to meet with other farmers, restaurants, and customers.” Afro-Iowa Unity Farm is one of the organization’s partnerships through the Equitable Land Access program.
Feed Iowa First promised that Global Graze will return next year but that donations and support are accepted year-round on their website.
Dining and Cooking