The Iowa Farm Bureau Federation (IFBF) last week announced a $15,000 donation to further boots-on-the-ground relief efforts of the American Red Cross (ARC) following the Aug. 10 derecho. 

“In the long term, there is much work to be done to rebuild what has been lost, but in the short term, Iowans’ needs for food, shelter and medical attention need to be immediately met and the American Red Cross has the infrastructure in place to assist with those services,” said Craig Hill, IFBF president. 

At this time, the American Red Cross has provided nearly 1,000 overnight stays for Iowans and kept many nourished with more than 22,000 meals and 3,000 cases of water. The ARC Disaster Health Services team also continues to attend to medical needs, making nearly 1,000 contacts to affected residents.

“I think the destruction from this storm is worse than the 2008 floods. We are seeing a growing need for basic services and supplies, and we are grateful to the Iowa Farm Bureau for their continued commitment to serving Iowans across the state when terrible disasters like this leave so many without basic necessities,” Justin Haas, ARC regional philanthropy officer, said. 

IFBF encourages all Iowans and those across the country who wish to help to also donate to the American Red Cross’ disaster recovery efforts by visiting www.redcross.org/donate. 

IFBF has also established a disaster exchange resources page where impacted Iowans can seek assistance and those in a position to provide support can offer their goods or services. Visit www.iowafarmbureau.com/disasterexchange to learn more.