Mulberry Farm & Food is a growing program run by CISS staff and clients that provides fresh, locally-grown food for our kitchen program. The farm is comprised of a state-of-the-art Schoen Greenhouse thanks to a generous donation in memory of Maddie Schoen. Our greenhouse features a HydroCycle Aquaponics System that produces a low-maintenance, self-sustaining source of shrimp and fresh lettuce. Mulberry Farm also includes a 4-acre Agrihood featuring raised growing beds, which is expected to be completed in 2025. Mulberry Farm & Food also supplies ingredients for our Mulberry Farm & Food Truck! With expanded space and an ever-growing list of supporters, we produce and sell to local businesses, increasing the amount of local food consumed in Des Moines.
Mulberry Farm also supplies produce to our Food Pantry. Individuals can access the food pantry once per calendar month and may receive a three-day food supply for each member of their family. You can support the pantry by donating canned goods, fresh produce, and paper products, and by volunteering to keep the pantry open and serving those in need.
Our Trainees
Mulberry Farms & Food is operated by CISS clients, who apply and interview for the job. Once hired, they work with our on-staff Master Gardener to help plan, care for, and manage all of the outdoor aspects of our facility. The trainees, who must be clients staying at the shelter, make above minimum wage, allowing them to quickly save up for things that help them get back out on their own.
Trainees in this 8-week program learn the basics of greenhouse growing and general facilities upkeep, as well as the essential job skills needed to keep any job—like showing up on time and working with a supervisor and co-workers. Participants get 1-on-1 assistance from staff members to help them build their resumes and increase their chances of being hired. Mulberry Farms & Food is committed to putting people back to work!
In the summer months, CISS offers forage-able landscaping and will also be developing a community garden club. If you’d like more information, please contact our Farm Manager Katherine at kklingensmith@centraliowashelter.org.
