Rep. Ashley Hinson visits Iowa Derecho Relief Center’s new location

 First Congressional District Representative Ashley Hinson stopped by the Iowa Derecho Relief Center to tour their new location on Jan. 26.

The freshman Republican said she had a busy start in Washington but is excited to be back in her district.

The center has implemented a digital check-in and check-out service, which allows clients to shop for themselves with a guide and plans to hand out 12,000 meal boxes in 2021.

"It's just fantastic that they were able to find a spot, able to find a partnership, and able to continue serving the community," Hinson said.

Congresswoman Hinson said she is making a to-do list back to D.C. in regards to food insecurity and expediting the process that would allow the center to be an official non-profit.

"I clearly have some action items of how I can best advocate for my constituents in dealing with agencies like the IRS; if there are challenges we need to work through those," Hinson said.

The center is operated by Together We Achieve, which started as a Facebook group and quickly turned into much more.

"I'm just really thrilled to be back in the district, actually able to get out and visit with people who I, you know, spent the last year and a half talking with, so that I can go advocate on their behalf and continue to tell their stories in Washington," Hinson said.

On Sunday, Jan. 31, Together We Achieve will be hosting a food box giveaway at Hawkeye Downs from noon to 3 p.m. as a part of their 12k in 2021 effort.