Matthew 25

Since 2006, Matthew 25 has created a variety of innovative programming focused on neighborhood revitalization through the building blocks of food, housing and education. Prior to the flood of 2008, Matthew 25 ran a summer free meal program as well as after school mentoring and education programs. Following the flood, we created and partnered with others to run a variety of recovery programs. The largest of these programs was Block by Block, which helped rehab more than 250 homes and raised nearly six million dollars in funding over the course of two years. In 2011, we created a tool library where community members can access tools and supplies to maintain and improve their homes, gardens and communities. In 2012, we created Iowa's first urban farm, where we grow fruits and vegetables using sustainable practices and offer community garden plots. In 2017, we started several food education programs for K-12th grade so that students can learn about where their food comes from and the importance of healthy eating. In 2018, we established the state's first and only pay-it-forward cafe, where everyone has access to fresh, healthy food, regardless of their ability to pay. In 2020-21, we helped with emergency home repairs following the derecho, such as tarping, patching, and replacing roofs. In 2022, Corner Store opened.