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Easy Baked Okra

This is a simple, flavorful, and easy Baked Okra recipe. Seasoned with paprika, salt, and a pinch of cayenne, this okra makes a great snack or side dish.

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Authentic Pico de Gallo

Pico De Gallo is a popular Mexican salsa that’s loaded with fresh tomatoes, onion, jalapeno, cilantro, and lime juice. Pico De Gallo is excellent over tacos, burritos, nachos, or served with chips.

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Two hands work within spinach leaves at the Central Iowa Shelter and Services Greenhouse.
The Other Side

Meet Tinesha

The Other Side: Tinesha. Before entering the Shelter, Tinesha was employed as a certified nurse’s aide and was determined to carve out a successful future for herself. But when a cascade of obstacles hit her

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Headshot of Mark, a member of the CISS community
Spring Appeal

Out of the Heat & Off the Street

The Fight Isn’t Over It is through donations from supporters just like you that we can continue to improve lives and build a stronger community. Your donations will help us multiply these efforts and reach

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Tammy, a CISS community member, smiling at the camera.
The Other Side

Meet Tammy

The Other Side: Tammy lived with her boyfriend in Des Moines until he passed away, leaving her grieving and with nowhere to live. With an eviction on her record, it was difficult to find her

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Headshot of Brazille from CISS's The Other Side Series.
The Other Side

Meet Brazille

Brazille was born and raised in San Antonio, Texas. With a high school diploma and 12 years of management and customer service skills, she wanted to further her education. So, in August of 2021, Brazille

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Headshot of Eugina from CISS's The Other Side Series.
The Other Side

Meet Eugina

While growing up on the east side of Des Moines, Eugina’s family owned a food truck business that was known for their “guinea grinders” sandwiches. She attended East High School for ninth grade but later

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Headshot of Karen from CISS's The Other Side Series.
The Other Side

Meet Karen

In her early twenties, Karen was kicked out of her family home and relied on waitressing or nursing to get by. Her disability made it challenging to keep jobs and she eventually lost her home.

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