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

Johnson County may award up to $100,000 in funding to nonprofit, charitable organizations providing services to Johnson County residents. These Hunger Relief Grants will cover the period of July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027. Successful projects will be eligible for a subsequent year of funding pending the availability of funds.

An estimated 11.5% of Johnson County residents, including over 14% of children, are food insecure and lack consistent access to adequate food. Roughly 39% of our food-insecure residents, including 46% 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.

Applications are due by 4 p.m. on Wednesday, May 20, 2026. Visit https://johnsoncountyiowa.gov/bids-and-proposals for more information.