DMARC, Downtown Farmers’ Market Partnership Leads to 500,000 Meals Donated

Vendors of the Des Moines’ Downtown Farmers’ Market presented by UnityPoint Health have worked with the Des Moines Area Religious Council (DMARC) to distribute unsold food and products for the past 15 years. In 2024, a major milestone was crossed when this ‘Meals from the Market’ partnership celebrated more than 500,000 meals donated to the DMARC Food Pantry Network’s food pantry sites across Greater Des Moines (DSM). This milestone wouldn’t have been possible without the generosity of market vendors and hundreds of volunteers.

About the DMARC Food Pantry Network

The DMARC Food Pantry Network takes in unsold items from The Market and distributes them to 14 different food pantry locations in DSM. Items include fresh and frozen fruits and vegetables. DMARC offers those utilizing local pantries a wider selection of healthy items to choose from through its local pantry network, food delivery service and mobile food pantry locations.

Volunteer with DMARC Food Pantry Network

Record inflation has seen a rise in the cost of food and led to about 1 in 3 people utilizing DMARC Food Pantry services. This means that now more than ever, volunteers are needed at The Market to help collect food from Market vendors. If you’re interested in collecting produce during Meals from the Market from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. on Saturdays, sign up for a shift and head to the Historic Court District in Downtown Des Moines (DSM) to walk The Market and pick up donations. Shifts are available for up to 18 people, so sign up with friends and family to help with the Meals from the Market mission. You can sign up here!

Giving in 2025

According to Matt Unger, DMARC CEO, the Food Pantry Network program distributes over 1,000,000 lbs. of fresh produce to individuals and families at food pantry sites across DSM, and not all donations come from The Market. Monetary donations can also make a huge impact since DMARC can purchase six times more food than individuals by purchasing through bulk. You can sign up to give a one-time donation or recurring donation to help meet food insecurity needs in the DSM community.

Improving the Greater Des Moines (DSM) community through volunteering and community service is a priority for many. Thanks to community engagement opportunities and leadership connecting local businesses to causes that provide services to improve the region, DSM continues to be a place that provides support for those who live, work and play here.

From May to October, experience local artists, live music and entertainment at the Downtown Farmers’ Market featuring more than 300 family farmers, bakers, artists and crafters from around the state. It’s easy to visit with plentiful and affordable street and ramp parking options. Find the latest updates for The Market each week on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.