DES MOINES, Iowa — A local advocacy group in Des Moines is helping provide Burmese immigrants and refugees with better access to food.
EMBARC, or the Ethnic Minorities of Burma Advocacy and Resource Center, have served Burmese people in Iowa since 2012, and have hosted a monthly food pantry for a few years. But now, they have relocated from the Vineyard Church to the former Lincoln Junior High in Des Moines.
EMBARC told Local 5 their food pantry is important because it not only addresses food insecurity, but also provides immigrants and refugees from the Asian country with more familiar food.
"For me, based on my personal story, families will appreciate a lot to get this food that meets your family needs," EMBARC crisis and advocacy program advocate Grace Htee said. "Especially going back to the culturally pacific food again, and then be able to make it. And know how to make it without anyone directing you."
EMBARC education coordinator Julissa Garcia added: "My parents are immigrants so, for me, it's just like continuing like my life service of like of helping my parents, but now I'm helping my community."
The pantry provides fresh produce, beans and rice, which Htee says is a staple in Burmese meals.
"Asian people like us, we eat rice everyday for breakfast, lunch and dinner. So that would make us really happy," she asid.
Food Bank of Iowa sends food donations to EMBARC's pantry, while Capital City provides fresh produce.
The monthly pantry will take place the fourth Thursday of every month from 4-6 p.m. at the former Lincoln Junior High in Des Moines.