Members of the Clutier Cowboys and Cowgirls 4-H Club pictured participating in this season’s Ignite the Spirit effort. PHOTO COURTESY OF JENNY HULME

TOLEDO – Tama County 4-H clubs proudly joined forces with the Deb and Jeff Hansen Foundation to participate in this season’s Ignite the Spirit program, bringing holiday cheer and essential food support to local schools and communities.

Toledo Techs, Garwin Roughriders, Buckingham Boosters and Clutier Cowboys and Cowgirls participated this year, each receiving $500 to purchase food and four (4) cases of pork loins. They worked as a club to purchase and bag the food that was then distributed to South Tama, Dysart Elementary, and the Traer and Garwin communities, ensuring that students and families have access to nutritious meals during the winter season.

The Foundation’s Ignite the Spirit program is designed to combat food insecurity while empowering youth to take an active role in serving their communities.

“This program highlights the strength of community partnerships,” said Tama County Youth Coordinator Jenny Hulme. “Our members are learning that service is not only about giving but about making a lasting impact on the lives of others.”

Since 2011, the Deb and Jeff Hansen Foundation has hosted Operation Christmas Meal and Ignite the Spirit, a hunger relief effort supporting Iowa families. They believe everyone deserves a good meal, especially around the holidays.

The Tama County 4-H Clubs’ participation in Ignite the Spirit reflects their ongoing commitment to leadership, citizenship, and community betterment – values at the heart of the 4-H mission. Thanks to the Deb and Jeff Hansen Foundation and Tama County 4-H members, families can gather this season with fuller tables and lighter hearts. The Ignite the Spirit program has delivered more than food – it has delivered hope and community care.