MADISON, Wis. (November 6, 2020) – Seven food banks across the Midwest are receiving a total of $385,000 from the annual Drive Out Hunger golf event, held by Alliant Energy’s Foundation. The funds will purchase 1.15 million meals to fight hunger and provide food for local families. In our area, the Food Bank for the Heartland, in Omaha, and Food Bank of Iowa, in Des Moines, were the recipients of funds from the golf event. Officials say the golf event, traditionally held in-person, was re-envisioned as a virtual event in 2020 to prioritize safety during the COVID-19 pandemic. Sponsors were encouraged to follow social distancing guidelines and play golf on their own time during September and October.

Julie Bauer, Executive Director of the Alliant Energy Foundation, said “The need for food in communities is greater than ever as food banks are seeing an increase in first-time customers due to the pandemic. We’re thinking of innovative ways to continue supporting communities while keeping safety top of mind.” Bauer thanked event sponsors for continuing to participate in the Drive Out Hunger event in support of food banks. She said “Even though we were unable to be together in-person, we’re extremely pleased with the amount raised and are proud to partner with others who understand how critically important it is to support communities and families.”

InterCon Construction has been a major sponsor for all 14 years of Drive Out Hunger. In 2020, nearly 40 business partners teamed up with Alliant Energy to generate the funds. Other top sponsors this year included: Border States, Michels, Perkins Coie, PwC, and White Construction. Anna Hillebrandt, President of InterCon Construction, Inc., said  “InterCon is proud to be a sponsor of the Drive Out Hunger event over the years. This year, more than ever, it is important to support our communities in their fight against hunger. Our donation is just a small part; the real credit goes to the dedicated staff and volunteers of the partner food banks who are doing critical work.”

Over the past 14 years, Drive Out Hunger has raised $4.38 million, resulting in nearly 16 million meals for local families.