Overall hunger and childhood hunger is rising in Washington County. Amanda Pieper, Director of the Food Reservoir for Hawkeye Area Community Action Program, reported this information to the Washington County Board of Supervisors this week. This food reservoir serves a seven county area including Washington, Johnson, Cedar, Iowa, Benton, Jones, and Linn.

Pieper stated the organization is looking at Washington as a potential pilot site for a mobile food bank. The mobile pantry would consist of two refrigerated trucks that would come to the area and set up at and partner with an existing pantry that has clientele and volunteers. The pantry would be open to anyone who needs it and will include a variety of food.

She adds they are currently speaking with local farmers about providing fresh produce due to the rising costs and the health benefits.