The holiday season should feel warm, joyful, and full of connection. But for many families in Iowa, this time of year brings added stress. Food insecurity rises, budgets get tight, and some households struggle to put a holiday meal on the table.
Circle City ABA is stepping in to help. Our Iowa food drive is now underway at all three of our Iowa centers. We are collecting nonperishable food items through December 19. The Johnston Center will accept donations through December 22.
Your donation can make a real difference. A single canned item or boxed meal can help a neighbor enjoy a brighter holiday season. In this post, you will find everything you need to know. How to participate. Where to drop off donations. Who your donations will support. And how to contact Circle City ABA if your family is interested in ABA therapy services.
Why Our Iowa Food Drive Matters
Food insecurity affects thousands of families across Iowa. Many parents work hard and still struggle to keep their kitchens stocked. During the holidays, the need grows even more.
Our goal is simple. We want to support the communities that support our centers. Many of our team members, clients, and neighbors call these communities home. A food drive is a small but powerful way to give back.
When you participate, you help create a holiday season filled with dignity and hope. Your generosity shows families that their community cares.
How the Iowa Food Drive Works
Participation is easy. You can drop off donations in the lobby of any Circle City ABA Iowa center. Each center has a labeled collection area where staff can help answer questions or accept larger donations.
We are collecting nonperishable items such as:
- Canned vegetables
- Canned proteins
- Boxed meals
- Pasta
- Rice
- Peanut butter
- Shelf-stable soups
- Holiday meal staples
If you want to donate more than food, many food pantries also accept essentials like paper goods and hygiene items. You may contact your local pantry to check specific needs.
Where to Bring Donations
Below are the three Circle City ABA Iowa centers. Insert each address and the food pantry or community partner your donations will support.
Ankeny Food Drive Drop-Off
Center Address: 1250 SW State Street, Suite A, Ankeny, IA 50023
Donations Accepted Until: December 19
Donations Support: The Impact Community Action Partnership
Cedar Rapids Food Drive Drop-Off
Center Address: 5945 Rockwell Dr. NE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
Donations Accepted Until: December 19
Donations Support: The River of Life
Johnston Food Drive Drop-Off
Center Address: 5627 NW 86th Street, Suite 300, Johnston, IA 50131
Donations Accepted Until: December 22
Donations Support: The Johnston Food Pantry
These locations are open during regular business hours. Anyone is welcome to stop in and donate. You do not need to be a current Circle City ABA family to participate.
Iowa Food Drive: How Your Donation Helps
Every item you donate goes straight to local organizations that support families in need. These partners distribute food to families experiencing hardship. Many help support families year-round with meals, grocery assistance, and emergency supplies.
A can of soup may seem minor. But when combined with other donations, it becomes holiday meals, grocery boxes, and relief for parents trying their best. Your contribution truly matters.
Your Participation Builds Stronger Communities
Circle City ABA believes in supporting our communities beyond therapy services. Our mission includes promoting kindness, connection, and inclusion wherever possible. Something as simple as giving a few items can spark a chain reaction of generosity.
Families who receive help may one day be in a position to help others. Children learn what it means to share joyfully. Communities grow stronger when neighbors support neighbors.
Interested in ABA Therapy? Contact Circle City ABA
If you have a child who may benefit from ABA therapy, we are here to help. Circle City ABA provides supportive, play-based therapy designed to help children learn skills that matter in daily life. Our team partners closely with families to create growth, understanding, and meaningful progress.
To get started or ask questions, you can:
- Call your nearest Circle City ABA center
- Visit our website to request to start the enrollment process
- Speak with our team directly during your donation drop-off
We are honored to serve families in Ankeny, Cedar Rapids, and Johnston and look forward to supporting your child’s journey.
Call to Action
You can make a difference today. Visit any Circle City ABA Iowa center and donate to our Iowa food drive. Together, we can help fill tables, share hope, and brighten the holidays for families across our communities.
If you need ABA therapy services or want to learn more, reach out to our team. We are ready to help your family take the next step.