Friends,

It’s been over a week since the devastating derecho storm hit Iowa, and even now there are tens of thousands of Iowans without power and many without the resources they need.

While it's been a long week for Iowans, I’m so inspired by our first responders and lineworkers working to restore power, our neighbors caring for one another, and the overwhelming messages of support from Americans from around the country.

I’m going to do whatever the heck I can to make sure Iowans get the help and resources they need as soon as possible.

Earlier in the week I talked to renowned Chef José Andres, who committed to keeping his organization World Central Kitchen on the ground for as long as Iowans need them to provide food and supplies for families during our recovery.

Yesterday alone, they served thousands of meals to Iowans in need, alongside the local businesses, volunteers, and organizations working overtime to help.

Today, I partnered with World Central Kitchen and we delivered generators and flashlights to Iowans without power, and provided lineworkers on the job working to restore power for Iowa families with drinks and snacks during these hot days.

It’s been incredible to see how residents have continued to show up for one another after this storm, but it’s just another reminder of how many resources are still needed here in Iowa.

I am in awe of the strength of Iowans this week. It will be a long road ahead as we recover from the derecho storm, but we will get through it together – and I’m going to continue to do whatever it takes to get our communities the resources they need.

As our friends, families, and neighbors continue to recover from this storm, it’s important that we continue to take care of one another. A full list of local resources offering and receiving assistance for Iowans in need can be found here.

Stay strong, Iowa,

Abby