Johnson County is accepting grant applications to help fund services that help reduce food insecurity and improve access to healthy food for residents who reside in or near food deserts, lack access to transportation, and homebound residents. In addition, programs seeking to provide locally grown produce for food-insecure households are encouraged to apply.   

The County may award up to $93,600 in funding to non-profit, charitable organizations providing services to Johnson County residents.  Grants will cover the period of July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2025. Successful projects will be eligible for a subsequent year of funding pending the availability of funds.

An estimated 8.2% of Johnson County residents, including over 10% of children, are food insecure and lack consistent access to adequate food. Roughly, 30% of our food insecure residents, including 44% of children, live in households that earn too much income to qualify for the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

Food insecurity is linked to many risk factors including chronic illness, and physical and mental health issues for people of all ages. Lack of adequate and healthy food can negatively impact a child’s growth and development and their ability to concentrate and learn in school.

The grant application can be found on the Johnson County website at www.johnsoncountyiowa.gov, under Bids, Proposals, RFPs. Applications are due by 4 p.m. on Wednesday, May 1, 2024. 

For more information contact Community Services Manager Rachel Carr at [email protected] or 319-356-6090.