#United States #community support #Davenport #Iowa American Water #River Bend Food Bank

Iowa American Water and River Bend Food Bank's Partnership for Hunger Relief

In a notable display of community support, Iowa American Water and River Bend Food Bank recently celebrated their collaboration with a generous financial donation aimed at alleviating hunger in the region.

On October 13, 2026, a ceremonial check for $20,000 was presented as part of the American Water Charitable Foundation's State Strategic Impact grant. This grant will significantly contribute to the food bank's All Hands on Deck program, which strives to provide nutritious meals to children, adults, and elders facing food insecurity throughout the area.

Celebrating the Collaboration

The event featured key figures from both organizations, including Brad Nielsen, President of Iowa American Water, and Jackie Kleppe, External Affairs Manager. They were joined by leaders from River Bend Food Bank, including Nikki Habben, the Interim President and CEO, who expressed gratitude for the ongoing partnership.

"This generous support from the American Water Charitable Foundation will help River Bend Food Bank provide more meals to children, adults, and seniors facing hunger across our region," stated Habben. "We are grateful for their continued partnership and for the Iowa American Water employees who give their time to work alongside us in helping our neighbors."

To complement this generous funding, about 43 employees from Iowa American Water volunteered at two food-packing events. Over these two sessions, they prepared 600 food boxes that collectively provided approximately 6,000 meals to families in need.

Addressing Fundamental Needs

Food security is essential for community health and stability, as highlighted by Brad Nielsen. "Access to nutritious food is fundamental to the health, stability, and well-being of every community," he stated. He emphasized that Iowa American Water’s commitment as a responsible community partner extends beyond supplying water and wastewater services, aiming to address broader community needs as well.

"We are proud to support River Bend Food Bank as it works to help ensure children, families, and seniors have the essential resources they need to thrive," Nielsen articulated, emphasizing the company's dedication to community welfare.

The State Strategic Impact grant is part of the 2026 Keep Communities Flowing Grant Program, which focuses on three pillars: Water, People, and Communities. This initiative is designed to empower impactful projects and outreach across American Water’s operational territory.

Commitment to Community Welfare

Carrie Williams, the president of the American Water Charitable Foundation, echoed the importance of such partnerships, stating, "The American Water Charitable Foundation is pleased to partner with organizations making a meaningful difference for people and communities across Iowa."

Since its inception, the American Water Charitable Foundation has demonstrated a commitment to philanthropic endeavors, having invested more than $25 million in grants and matching gifts to support eligible organizations in the communities served by American Water since 2012. The foundation operates independently of customer rates, ensuring that customers are not affected by its charitable activities.

About Iowa American Water

Iowa American Water, a subsidiary of American Water, stands as the largest regulated water utility in the state. With a dedicated workforce of approximately 90 employees, the company strives to deliver safe, clean, reliable, and affordable water and wastewater services to around 225,000 people. For further details about their initiatives, visit amwater.com.

As organizations like Iowa American Water and River Bend Food Bank work hand in hand, they set a commendable precedent for corporate responsibility and social welfare, uniting communities in the fight against hunger.