[December 05, 2024]
Sometimes when we get wrapped up in the magic of the holidays, the basics can get lost in the shuffle. But sometimes it’s the simplest gestures that make the most meaningful gifts. That’s why the Johnston Partnership Food Pantry is asking for personal items this December.
Founded in 1997, the Johnston Partnership has been operating for more than two decades as an all-volunteer run 501c3 non-profit, evolving alongside the community it serves. This December, they want to encourage anyone in a giving mood to bring personal hygiene items for the families they serve instead of canned food, or to take a look at their list of needs. 
“When it comes to donations, we are always in need of clothing items around this time of year, especially coats, as we are doing a coat drive for families that come to see us. We are also always in need of personal items, such as feminine products (specifically pads), bars of soap, toothpaste, etc.” said Carissa Silva, who is the partnership’s food pantry operations manager.
“We know that people like to buy food for us, as we are a food pantry. However, since we work closely with the Food Bank of Iowa and the Des Moines Area Religious Council (DMARC), we can purchase food in bulk at a much lower cost than families can at a local grocery store.”
AKC Marketing is hosting a drop-off station for donations at our offices at 8961 Thomas Ave. in Johnston from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays starting Monday, Dec. 9 through Friday, Dec. 20. Give a gift and get a gift! While supplies last, we're giving away Stanley-style cups, coozies and a few other goodies from businesses in our area, including nail salon coupons thanks to our friends at Elite Nails.
Partnership Projects
Over the years, the Johnston Partnership has launched several initiatives focused on meeting the immediate needs of community members, while also working towards long-term solutions. Some of its key areas of focus include:
- Clothing Closet: Anyone checking into the Food Pantry may access the Clothing Closet and be allowed 5 clothing items per family member per month. There is no fee for the clothing items.
- Back-to-school Clinic: Collaborates with Johnston Community Education and local providers to assist families with physicals, vaccinations, screenings and other back to school necessities.
- After-School Programs: Developing programs aimed at supporting at-risk youth, including after-school care, mentoring and educational support.
- Food Pantry: The partnership goes beyond providing food to families in need. They offer basic hygiene products to empower clients to live a life with dignity and confidence. Everyone deserves to wake up ready to tackle the day feeling clean and energized. Personal care items are highly sought after at the Pantry.
- Community Gardens: Partnering with both the Johnston Summit Middle School and other community gardens to provide fresh fruits and vegetables for clients. These gardens are a collaborative effort of volunteers, including individuals, families, and community groups that allows this partnership to continue year after year.
- Johnston Gives: Provides gift cards to over 500 Johnston Community School students each December.
From its humble beginnings, the Johnston Partnership has placed a high value on collaboration, believing that the most effective solutions to complex social issues come when various stakeholders work together toward a common goal. By uniting local schools, businesses, health providers, government and residents, the Johnston Partnership has created programs and initiatives that have made a measurable impact.
If you’re interested in volunteering for the partnership, its programs or sponsoring a family, get in touch by emailing Andrea Cook at andrea@johnstonpartnership.org!