NEICAC Provides Vital Support for Howard County Residents in Need through Comprehensive Services
Fri, 09/18/2026 - 3:01pm
admin
By:
Rachel Riley - TPD Editor
HOWARD COUNTY - In the realm of increasing challenges and uncertainties residents of Howard County face, the Northeast Iowa Community Action Corporation (NEICAC) emerges as a steadfast beacon of support and empowerment for individuals and families grappling with limited resources. Situated within the Howard County Social Services building at 204 2nd Ave E, NEICAC symbolizes a vital lifeline for residents, extending its benevolent influence across a vast seven-county service area.
NEICAC's rich tapestry of essential services and programs represents a hallmark of hope and assurance for families striving to attain stability and enhance their quality of life. From the critical LIHEAP heating assistance program and pivotal crisis intervention services to the far-reaching General Relief spanning Howard County and three additional neighboring counties, NEICAC's broad spectrum of offerings includes nurturing preschool opportunities through Head Start, specialized support for expectant mothers and young families via Early Head Start, the empowering FaDSS initiative fostering family development and self-sufficiency, the crucial Weatherization Assistance program, accessibility to nutritious food through CACFP, and facilitation of pivotal EARL public transit and housing services. NEICAC’s approach to community support presents a comprehensive safety net for residents in need. With a strategic network of food pantries across several counties, including the Howard County Food pantry, NEICAC propels its mission of addressing food insecurities by providing essential sustenance and support where it is needed most.
At the heart of the Howard County branch of NEICAC's impactful mission stands Carol Stika-O’Donnell, the beloved and dedicated Family Service Specialist in Howard County. Charged with the noble task of ensuring families in need receive tailored care and vital resources, Carol's unwavering commitment and tireless efforts embody her compassion and drive. Under Carol's guidance, the Howard County food pantry shines as a beacon of hope for the community, maintaining an unwavering commitment to serving an average of 40 to 50 households monthly with varying essential items such as fresh produce, canned goods, and meats - showcasing the level of care and community support that underpins NEICAC's mission.
Stika-O’Donnell is usually the first person you meet when you walk into the food pantry, and for first timers, she will proudly give you the tour, showing you different options and helping you shop.
When asked why the food pantry is important to Howard County Stika-O’Donnell answered, “For people that don’t have jobs, aren’t able to work because of disabilities or can’t find meaningful work, I think its a great resource. Groceries are expensive for everybody, but its especially difficult to those in need. I think its just a great community resource. Our community has been awesome. Between the the churches, our local businesses, and donations, its been overwhelming to me, how much they support this food pantry.”
Stick-O’Donnell also wants to get the word out so that people that need the pantry’s assistance know where to go, stating, “If you need help, please come and ask for help. I know a lot of people have a lot of pride, I don’t look at that stuff and neither does community action as an agency. We’re here to help people.”
The measurable impact of NEICAC’s operations are seen in the impressive figures that highlight the organization's unwavering community reach and steadfast support. The Howard County food pantry has expertly facilitated 521 visits and graciously served a commendable cohort of 1,405 individuals within the last year (some were return visitors - each visit is counted as an individual). These figures transcend mere statistics, representing tales of resilience and hope, with a total of about 38,762 pounds of essential food and supplies, NEICAC continues to make a huge difference to many members within the community.
Martin Ahrndt, who has worked for NEICAC for 8 years starting as the Family Service Specialist in Cresco, moving to a corporate position in the Early Childhood Program and now works as a Family Service Coordinator and General Relief Director says, “I have seen many aspects of what our agency can offer vulnerable families. To me NEICAC truly embraces the dual mission of educating the community about the hurtles faced by families with limited resources and how communities can help those families.” He also adds, “NEICAC provides hope to families who come to our offices feeling they have lost all hope and do not know where to turn. We do this by showing them respect, listening and connecting them with resources we have, and referrals to other programs that specifically can help in their situation. What numbers can never show is the hope that NEICAC provides to those who are hopeless.”
Ahrndt's reflections underscore the importance of community programs in fostering resilience and empowerment among families struggling with limited resources. Through collaborative efforts and a dedication to service, NEICAC continues to serve as a beacon of hope for those seeking assistance and guidance in their time of need.
As the fall season approaches, the office is gearing up for the LIHEAP heating assistance program starting on Oct. 1st for those over 60 or disabled, and Nov. 1st for all others. NEICAC encourages the community to apply online or schedule a phone or in-person appointment for efficient and timely assistance. By working together with residents to build resilience and empowerment, NEICAC remains a pillar of strength and compassion for individuals and families facing challenges in Howard County. Through shared resilience and hope, NEICAC exemplifies community support and unity, shaping a story of solidarity and empowerment in Howard County.
Join the Cresco Times Plain Dealer in supporting the Howard County Food Pantry this September during Hunger Action Month. Throughout the month, you can contribute by dropping off non-perishable items at The Cresco Times Plain Dealer during their regular business hours, Monday to Friday from 8 am to 5 pm at 214 N. Elm Street in Cresco.
The Food Pantry welcomes any non-expired stable food items that are unopened, along with essential non-food items like paper products, hygiene products, soaps, shampoos, and diapers. Top needs of the pantry right now are sugar, pancake mix, cooking oil and hamburger helper (or similar). On September 29th and 30th, fresh produce donations will also be accepted to provide additional support. Please note that fresh produce donations will only be accepted on the last two days of the drive to ensure timely utilization by the Food Pantry. Let's come together, Howard County, and lend a helping hand to our neighbors in need!
