Governor Reynolds announced the state will match cash donations to Iowa’s regional food banks up to $1 million starting November 1. Here’s what that means for Muscatine County and how you can help.
What’s the match program?
If federal SNAP benefits don’t arrive in November due to the government shutdown, Iowa will match every dollar donated to the state’s six regional food banks—doubling your donation’s impact.
How it works:
- You donate $50 to River Bend Food Bank
- The state adds $50
- River Bend receives $100 total
The state will match donations until it reaches $1 million total across all six food banks statewide.
Which food bank serves Muscatine?
River Bend Food Bank in Davenport serves Muscatine County. They’re one of Iowa’s six regional food banks and the largest hunger relief organization in the Quad Cities area.
River Bend serves 23 counties across eastern Iowa and western Illinois. They work with over 400 partner agencies—including Muscatine’s food pantries—to distribute more than 20 million meals each year.
River Bend Food Bank: 4010 Kimmel Dr. Davenport, IA 52802 Phone: 563-345-6490 Website: riverbendfoodbank.org
How does this help Muscatine County?
When you donate to River Bend Food Bank, that money supports local pantries in Muscatine County, including:
- Mobile Food Pantry programs
- Partner food pantries across the county
- Emergency food distribution
- Special programs for seniors and children
Right now, food banks are preparing for higher demand if SNAP benefits are delayed. More people will need pantry services, which means pantries need:
- More food inventory
- More volunteers
- More funding to keep operations running
Your donation—matched by the state—helps River Bend supply Muscatine pantries with the food and resources they need.
How to donate to River Bend Food Bank
Three ways to give:
Online: Visit riverbendfoodbank.org and click “Donate”
By mail: River Bend Food Bank 4010 Kimmel Dr. Davenport, IA 52802
By phone: Call 563-345-6490 during business hours
Important: Make sure your donation is marked for the match program. The state will provide more details about how to designate your donation for matching in the coming days. Check River Bend’s website for updated instructions.
When does the match program start?
November 1, 2025 if federal SNAP benefits aren’t funded during November.
The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services will release specific instructions about how to participate in the match program. River Bend Food Bank will also provide guidance on their website and social media.
What else is the state doing?
Beyond the match program, Iowa is preparing for increased food pantry demand by:
Recruiting volunteers: The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services and Volunteer Iowa are organizing volunteers to help at food pantries statewide.
National Guard support: The Iowa National Guard is preparing for possible food distribution missions if needed (similar to what they did during the pandemic).
Private sector support: Several organizations have already donated:
- Iowa’s three Medicaid managed care organizations donated $100,000 each
- Hy-Vee donated $100,000
- Fareway and Iowa Pork Producers donated $20,000 worth of ground pork
What happens next
Week of November 1:
- State match program details will be released
- River Bend Food Bank will provide donation instructions
- Food banks will begin operating under increased demand protocols
Watch for updates:
- River Bend Food Bank website and social media
- Iowa DHS website
- Local news
If SNAP resumes: If Congress passes funding and SNAP benefits resume, the match program may not be needed. Either way, donations to food banks are always welcome and needed.
Why food banks instead of direct aid?
Food banks can stretch donated dollars further than individuals can. River Bend Food Bank gets food at bulk prices and through partnerships, meaning:
- $10 donated = approximately 50 meals provided
- They buy food wholesale (cheaper than retail)
- They receive donated food from manufacturers and retailers
- They have distribution networks already in place
Your $50 donation (matched to $100) provides roughly 500 meals through the food bank system.
Other ways to help
Donate food: River Bend Food Bank accepts non-perishable food donations. Most needed items:
- Canned proteins (tuna, chicken, beans)
- Canned vegetables and fruits
- Peanut butter
- Whole grain pasta and rice
- Cereal
- Shelf-stable milk
Spread the word: Tell people about the match program and River Bend’s work. Share on social media. Talk to your friends and family about donating.
Questions about the match program
Q: Will my donation definitely be matched? Yes, if you donate during the match period (starting November 1) and follow the designation process the state announces. The state has committed to match up to $1 million total across all six food banks.
Q: Is there a limit to how much I can donate? No personal limit. Donate as much as you want. The state will match donations until they reach their $1 million cap statewide.
Q: Can I donate directly to Muscatine pantries? Yes, but state matching only applies to donations made to the six regional food banks (including River Bend). Donations to River Bend ultimately support Muscatine pantries through their network.
Q: Are donations tax-deductible? Yes. River Bend Food Bank is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Keep your donation receipt for tax purposes.
Q: What if I can’t afford to donate? You don’t have to donate money. Volunteer time is just as valuable. Or simply spread the word to people who can give.
Contact information
River Bend Food Bank: 563-345-6490 riverbendfoodbank.org
Iowa Department of Health and Human Services: 1-877-347-5678 dhs.iowa.gov
Bottom line: If you can donate during the match period, your money goes twice as far. Every dollar you give to River Bend Food Bank gets matched by the state, doubling your impact for Muscatine families who need food assistance.
