Address: 602 3rd Street SW, Altoona Iowa ⋅ Phone: (515) 967-4533 ⋅ Email: office@caringhandsiowa.org 
Have you ever wondered why people visit a food pantry? The decision to reach out for assistance with food or other expenses is often a difficult one. There are lots of misconceptions and stigma attached to visiting a food pantry. So much so that many of our neighbors that we could help never reach out […]
Our board members are passionate about sharing Jesus by meeting our neighbors and meeting their needs. This diverse group ensures that Caring Hands stays true to its mission as we make plans and move forward. Get to know one of these board members – Jackie Boeding Tewes. What do you do for a living? I’m […]
Each of our board members bring their own unique gifts and talents to help Caring Hands Outreach Center mobilize compassion towards our neighbors in eastern Polk County. Barron Geiger is a stellar example of a mission-minded board member who is passionate about our organization’s success. Here’s what you need to know about Barron: Tell us […]
Many people think of Caring Hands as a food pantry. While that’s not wrong, it’s only a part of how we mobilize compassion towards our neighbors. Here is a story from Barron Geiger, a frequent volunteer and board member here at Caring Hands. Cindy (not her real name) was an infrequent visitor at our food […]
Here in the United States, the holidays are centered around faith, family, and food. As you spend time focusing on each of these things, be purposeful in making opportunities to be generous. In the book of Acts, Paul quotes Jesus, “‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.” As you are planning your holiday […]
As we reflect on God’s goodness this holiday season, we want to share with you things that fill our hearts with thankfulness. Our Savior Jesus is the reason Caring Hands exists. He is the hope for the hurting, the bread of life for the hungry, and our motive in serving. We desire to point people […]
Caring Hands is blessed to have board members who are passionate about our mission. In addition to serving as the Senior Pastor at Lutheran Church of the Cross, Pastor Nathan Anenson serves on our board and continually works to help us ensure we are true to our mission. Here’s what you need to know about […]
People often ask what kinds of food items we need for our Altoona and East Des Moines food pantries. The answer changes depending on the season. Right now, we need: canned chili beans creamed corn canned pasta in tomato sauce corn muffin mix pancake syrup The best time to bring your non-perishable donations to the […]
Caring Hands Outreach Center’s board of directors is a diverse group of people who love Jesus, want to be His hands and feet to their neighbors, and are mission-minded. Our Board Treasurer Craig Perry has a special connection to our mission. Here’s what you need to know about Craig: Where does your family attend church? […]
“Then Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people. But when He saw the multitudes, He was moved with compassion for them, because they were weary and scattered, like sheep having no shepherd.” Matthew 9:35-36 […]