Winnebago Health Foundation’s Evening of Culture Raises Over $50,000 for Food is Medicine Initiative

October 7, 2025

Sioux City, IA – The Winnebago Health Foundation (WHF) proudly announces the success of its Evening of Culture fundraiser, held on Friday, October 3, at the Country Celebrations Event Center. Thanks to the generosity of attendees, sponsors, and donors, the event raised over $50,000 to support Food is Medicine, a critical component of the Winnebago Comprehensive Healthcare System’s (WCHS) Master Facilities Plan.

The evening featured an Indigenous-inspired dinner, a lively silent auction showcasing Native arts, crafts, and services, and a breathtaking performance by the Many Moccasins Dance Troupe. Guests also joined in a celebratory round dance, highlighting the strength and vibrancy of Ho-Chunk culture.

“This event shows the power of community coming together to support health and wellness in a way that is deeply rooted in our culture,” said Danelle Smith, Chairwoman of the WHF Board. “Every dollar raised brings us closer to ensuring our patients have access to fresh, culturally centered, and nutritious food as part of their care.”
The Food is Medicine initiative will bring three important resources to Winnebago: a Fresh Food Market, a Healthy Choice Café, and a Teaching Kitchen. Together, these spaces will help patients and families access healthy, culturally-centered food while learning skills to support long-term wellness.

David Edwards, CEO of WCHS and WHF Board Secretary, added: “This initiative is foundational to how we reimagine healthcare for the Winnebago community. Integrating food into care is an act of healing and prevention, and it is one of the most important steps we can take toward better health outcomes. We are deeply grateful to everyone who supported this event and believe together we will make this vision a reality.”

Over the next two years, WCHS and the Winnebago Health Foundation aim to raise $1.3 million to bring these components to life. Funding will come from a variety of sources, including grants, partnerships, and personal donations. Events like Evening of Culture play an essential role in moving this vision forward. For more information about supporting the Winnebago Health Foundation and its initiatives, please visit www.wchs.health/foundation.