The Worth County Development Authority in Iowa voted recently to award $66,000 to nine area food banks, including one in Mower County, to help people in need.

The group has annually provided assistance but this year’s amount represents an $18,500 increase.

Food Banks in Worth, Hancock, Mower, Winnebago, Floyd, Freeborn, Mitchell and Cerro Gordo counties will each receive funds. The WCDA represents the non-profit arm of the Diamond Jo Casino near Northwood, Iowa.