The closing of the Hostess plant in Waterloo has led to some rare offerings for the Northeast Iowa Food Bank. The food bank’s director of external relations, Mike Lind, says Hostess sent over boxloads of their products after they closed.

“Received a variety of the Wonder bread, definitely obviously a good staple to have in the household. Got some more of the sweets as well, we have some of the donuts and some of the Hostess zingers,” Lind says.

Food Bank executive director, Barbara Prather says it’s common to get in products when a factory closes. “Our mission is really two fold, to reduce food waste and recoup food that’s still perfectly good and get it to people in need,” Prather said.

Prather says the first choice for food banks is always nutrient-rich fruits, veggies and meats, but the occasional sugary cakes and donuts give their clients a sense of normalcy as well. “I really wouldn’t like to see our clients spend money on (sweets),” Prather said. “So this is something they might not have and if we can provide it one last time that’s good.”

The Northeast Iowa Food Bank expects another round of Hostess products soon, but they have to be careful how much they take in. The food bank also receives donations from Hy-Vee and other local donors.

By Jillian Petrus, KCRG-TV, Cedar Rapids