Elderbridge Launches “Slam Dunk Against Hunger Madness” Online Fundraiser March 22–29

Elderbridge Agency on Aging is calling on the community to step up and help fight hunger during its “Slam Dunk Against Hunger Madness” online nutrition fundraiser, set for March 22–29, 2026.

The week-long online auction will begin at 8:00 a.m. CST on March 22 and conclude at 8:00 p.m. CST on March 29. Organizers have set a fundraising goal of $25,000 to support vital nutrition services for older Iowans.

As inflation and the rising cost of living continue to impact households across the state, food insecurity among older adults is increasing. According to Elderbridge, one out of every two older adults is at risk of malnutrition. Warning signs can include loss of appetite, unplanned weight loss, fatigue, and difficulty performing everyday tasks.

Many older Iowans depend on Elderbridge’s services as their primary source of daily nutrition. The agency currently helps fund meals in more than 40 locations across 29 counties, including congregate meal sites, home-delivered meals, and emergency meal programs.

However, while demand continues to grow, state and federal funding has not kept pace. Funds raised during the “Slam Dunk Against Hunger Madness” campaign will help expand capacity, reduce waiting lists, and ensure consistent access to nutritious meals that support health, independence, and overall well-being.

Beyond providing meals, Elderbridge programs also promote socialization and connection for older adults who gather at meal sites, while offering nutrition education that improves long-term health outcomes.

How to Participate

The fundraiser is hosted entirely online at:
https://www.32auctions.com/elderbridgenutrition2026

Participants can easily create an account using their email address and begin bidding on auction items from any phone or computer — no app required. Bidders receive automatic email notifications if they are outbid and can use the convenient “proxy bid” feature to set a maximum bid amount.

Payments can be made securely online via PayPal. Winners may also pay with cash or check when picking up items from their nearest Elderbridge office.

Community members who prefer not to bid can still support the effort by making a direct cash donation. Checks may be made payable to:

Elderbridge Agency on Aging
“Slam Dunk Against Hunger” Fundraiser
% Amy Simpson
1190 Briarstone Drive, Ste. 3
Mason City, IA 50401

(Please write “Slam Dunk Against Hunger” in the memo line.)

Online donations are also accepted via PayPal.

Organizers encourage individuals, businesses, and community groups to participate, emphasizing that every dollar raised helps reduce hunger, food insecurity, and malnutrition among older Iowans.

For more information, call 800-243-0678.