Winnebago Health Foundation Raises Over $82,000

Sioux City, IA – Last Friday, the Winnebago Health Foundation (WHF) raised more than $82,000 at its annual Evening of Indigenous Culture fundraiser. The evening raised money to support the "Food Is Medicine" components of the Winnebago Comprehensive Healthcare System (WCHS) Master Facilities Plan. 

Friends from the Siouxland area and Winnebago communities gathered at Country Celebrations to enjoy an Indigenous-inspired dinner, and all-Native items auction, and a captivating performance by the Many Moccasins Dance Troupe. All attendees were able to take part in celebrating the rich traditions, cultural pride, and enduring strength of the Ho-Chunk people. 

"Tonight is about coming together to celebrate our culture and to raise awareness and funds for our "Food is Medicine" initiatives," explained Willy Bass, WCHS and WHF Board Member. "This is a powerful program, and we're so excited to share more about it with you." 

The "Food Is Medicine" initiatives will introduce three valuable resources to the Winnebago community: a Fresh Food Market, Healthy Choice Café, and a Teaching Kitchen. These spaces will provide greater access to nutritious, culturally centered foods while empowering individuals and families with the knowledge and skills to build healthier lifestyles. 

"This event invited guests to support our efforts to do the right thing, the effective thing, the thing that no insurance company will pay for," said Rona Stealer, Keynote Speaker and WHF Board Member. "Together with the support of other food sovereignty efforts, we can eliminate the food desert in Winnebago."  

To learn more about the Winnebago Health Foundation, its initiatives, and opportunities to support its mission, visit www.wchs.health/foundation.