Pantry Highlights Milestones, Partnerships at Annual Meeting

Every dollar helps Decorah News chase down the truth on Water Street, not just headlines. Give today. DECORAH — The Decorah Community Food Pantry held its annual meeting March 9, bringing together volunteers, supporters and community members alongside the board of directors. The meeting highlighted milestones in combating food insecurity, shared updates on new leadership and honored the dedication of volunteers who help make the pantry's mission possible. The pantry introduced two new assistant directors, Nori Hadley and Dawn Schweizer. The leadership transition comes as Director Matt Tapscott plans to retire from his position in August. During the gathering, board members provided an overview of the pantry's achievements over the past year. In 2025, the Decorah Community Food Pantry assisted 22,614 family members and distributed nearly 350,000 pounds of food. Of that total, 239,000 pounds consisted of "rescue food" sourced from local partners—food that otherwise would have gone to waste. Organizers said partnerships with area organizations have been essential in expanding the pantry's reach and strengthening community support. Organizers said partnerships with area organizations have been essential in expanding the pantry's reach and strengthening community support. Courtesy photo The pantry also expressed gratitude to outgoing board officers Diane Borowski, Jon Hart and Charlie Smock for their service and leadership. Newly elected board members Brian Erickson, Brad Schwartz and Loren Wilkins were welcomed. Officers elected for 2026 are Nancy Ruen, president; Susan Herndon, vice president; Martha Kane, secretary; David Scott, treasurer; and Terry Sparkes, assistant treasurer. The Decorah Community Food Pantry thanked community members for their continued support. For more information or to get involved, visit decorahpantry.org or email decorahpantry@gmail.com. Discover what's happening near you! The free DecorahNews.com newsletter brings updates, inspiring stories, and practical tips right to your inbox.