Raising Our Voices: ICA’s Advocacy in Action

Over the past six months, ICA has amplified a simple truth: no one in our community should have to choose between paying rent and putting food on the table. Yet too many of our neighbors face that reality. Rising housing costs, limited food access, and stagnant wages are creating impossible trade-offs—and that’s where ICA steps in, with both food and advocacy.

This spring, ICA Executive Director Dan Narr joined partners at the State Capitol for Hunger Day on the Hill, urging legislators to invest in food security programs that stabilize families and strengthen communities. Those conversations continued in Washington, D.C., where ICA joined a Midwest coalition for high-level meetings with Sen. Amy Klobuchar, Rep. Kelly Morrison, Sen. Tina Smith, Rep. Angie Craig, and others. Their message was clear: hunger must remain a national priority, with federal programs serving as lifelines for thousands of Minnesotans.

“We’re gonna fight tooth and nail to make sure no one goes hungry in this country,” Dan Narr said. “Our community is ready to meet this need. It’s more than food. It’s food, jobs, and housing.”

From left to right: Caleigh Gumbiner (Second Harvest), Robin Manthie (Second Harvest), Rep. Kelly Morrison (MN-03), Dan Narr (ICA)

Locally, ICA engages with the Governor’s office, state legislators, and advocacy partners to ensure community needs remain front and center. In August, ICA cohosted a roundtable with Rep. Kelly Morrison, The Food Group, and Second Harvest to discuss the impact of SNAP cuts on local families.

But meaningful change doesn’t happen in meeting rooms alone—it requires all of us. Whether emailing a representative, showing up at Hunger Day on the Hill, or talking to neighbors about why hunger is a justice issue, advocacy is about standing together. Join ICA in ensuring no one must choose between food and shelter. Together, we can help every neighbor thrive.