In Jasper County, there are 4,600 individuals who do not know where there next meal will come from — that’s 12.5 percent of the total county population. It is absolutely critical that future policymakers and community leaders in Iowa understand the importance of food in our state. Now that the 86th General Assembly has adjourned, we look ahead to the elections in November.
Residents of Newton will have a great opportunity to vote for a candidate that will make anti-hunger efforts a priority. What Iowa needs are policymakers that will stand up for the 4,600 Jasper County residents that struggle with hunger.
I encourage voters to get to know their candidates. Ask questions aimed to raise awareness and promote public discourse around the many pertinent issues affecting Iowa’s food system. One question might be: What would you do to ensure every Jasper County resident has access to enough nutritious food to lead a healthy, active lifestyle.
Our policy-makers need to understand that addressing hunger should be a priority. The impacts of hunger are devastating. This issue is not just about food; it’s about addressing a cause of diabetes, hypertension, aggression, and anxiety. It’s about ensuring our children are properly nourished so that they may grow at a rate comparable to their food-secure peers. It’s about improving the long-term economy of our state by reducing the annual cost of treating illness due to food insecurity. Please remember, your vote this fall will make an impact.
Cory Berkenes
Des Moines