UPDATE: The University of Iowa Retirees Association held an urgent fundraiser on February 15, 2025, at Tavern Blue, titled “Music, Meals, and Making a Difference,” to combat alarming food insecurity affecting students and staff. This event, in partnership with the UI Food Pantry, aimed to raise awareness about the critical issue that has reached shocking levels within the university community.
With a staggering 61% of graduate students, 21% of undergraduates, and 18% of faculty and staff experiencing food insecurity, the need for action is more pressing than ever. Fundraiser organizers, including Steph Beecher, the basic needs coordinator in the Division of Student Life, emphasized that the event’s main goal was not just fundraising but also raising vital awareness on this growing crisis.
The evening featured live music from the band HomeBrewed, performing classic hits from Johnny Cash and Willie Nelson, creating an atmosphere of joy as attendees danced and sang along. Beecher noted that it took six months of dedicated preparation and countless volunteer hours to make this event a reality.
In a heartfelt statement, Beecher remarked, “The main goal of this fundraiser isn’t even to raise money; it’s more about raising awareness around the issue of food insecurity.” A specially created QR code allowed attendees to contribute directly to the food pantry by ordering food from Amazon.
Past president of the UI Retirees Association, Evalyn Van Allen-Shalash, expressed her gratitude for the overwhelming turnout. “This night has exceeded my expectations,” she said, visibly moved by the community’s support and the abundance of donations. The emotional impact was palpable, with donation boxes overflowing throughout the night.
The event was made possible through the collaborative efforts of various university groups, including the Graduate College and the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, along with Tavern Blue, which generously donated 10% of its proceeds to the Iowa City Food Pantry.
As food insecurity continues to plague the university, Beecher’s research has revealed urgent statistics that highlight the necessity for immediate community action. The event not only raised funds—final totals are still being calculated—but also galvanized the community to confront this pressing issue.
With growing support and awareness, the UI Retirees Association is poised to make a significant impact. As the evening concluded, attendees left with a renewed sense of purpose, eager to contribute to a cause that affects so many within their community.
Stay tuned for further updates on the total funds raised and ongoing initiatives to tackle food insecurity at the University of Iowa.
