FORT DODGE (NEW Co-op) – With the holiday season, many things come to mind, such as Christmas parties, holiday baking, time spent with family and goodwill.

In preparation for the busy holiday season, NEW Cooperative has made donations to local food banks and hunger organizations throughout its trade territory to help Iowans who need it.

Approximately 12 dozen hams were donated to food banks in Sioux City, Eagle Grove, Humboldt and Webster City. Hams were also donated to the Gateway to Discovery House and the Butler Blast Elementary Program, both in Fort Dodge, during December.

Additionally, in conjunction with the Land O’ Lakes Foundation, the NEW Cooperative Foundation has donated $4,500 each to the following hunger organizations – The Lord’s Cupboard, Salvation Army, Beacon of Hope and Backpack Buddies.