Global Greens CSA: Fresh, Local Produce & Support for Refugees | Des Moines, IA

Sign-ups are now open for the 2026 season of Lutheran Services in Iowa’s (LSI) Global Greens Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program, offering a unique opportunity to access sustainably grown produce while supporting refugee farmers. The program, which begins May 26th and runs through September 22nd, provides subscribers with weekly or bi-weekly shares of locally and culturally diverse crops. Shares start at $37.50 per week.

A Farm-to-Table Model Supporting New Americans

Global Greens isn’t simply a produce delivery service. it’s an incubator farm designed to help former refugee farmers rebuild their livelihoods in the United States. Located at and in partnership with Valley Community Center in West Des Moines, the 8.5-acre farm provides land access, business development assistance, and technical support to farmers transitioning to a new agricultural system. Since its inception, Global Greens farmers have collectively generated over $750,000 in gross sales, according to LSI. The program also extends support to graduates who establish their own farms in the Des Moines Metro area.

The CSA model allows consumers to directly support these farmers by purchasing a share of the harvest upfront. Subscribers receive six to ten different varieties of vegetables with each share, offering a diverse selection of seasonal produce. Pick-up locations are conveniently situated throughout the Des Moines metro area, and home delivery is available as an option. More information about pick-up locations can be found on the National Farmers Market Directory website here.

Accessibility and Affordability Through SNAP Benefits

LSI is actively working to expand access to fresh, healthy food through partnerships and financial assistance programs. Participants who qualify for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) can leverage Iowa’s Double Up Food Bucks program to receive a 50% discount on their CSA shares. This initiative effectively doubles the purchasing power of SNAP benefits, making locally grown produce more affordable for food-insecure households. This aligns with LSI’s broader mission of supporting refugee and immigrant communities, addressing both economic empowerment and food security.

Sustainable Practices and Community Impact

Global Greens prioritizes environmentally responsible farming methods. Produce is grown without the use of synthetic chemicals, focusing instead on practices that promote healthy soil and robust ecosystems. This commitment to sustainability not only benefits the environment but also ensures the quality and freshness of the produce. The program’s emphasis on soil health reflects a growing trend in agriculture towards regenerative farming practices, which aim to improve soil fertility and carbon sequestration.

Beyond providing fresh produce, proceeds from the Global Greens CSA directly benefit LSI’s Pantry program. This program provides crucial food assistance to refugee households experiencing food insecurity, creating a cyclical impact where consumer purchases support those in necessitate within the same community. This integrated approach demonstrates a commitment to holistic community development.

Expanding Access to Gardening Opportunities

In addition to the incubator farm and CSA program, Global Greens facilitates urban gardening opportunities for refugee families. Through partnerships with the City of Des Moines, volunteers, and private landowners, the program connects families with small garden plots near their homes. This allows them to grow their own culturally relevant foods and maintain a connection to the land. LSI welcomes inquiries from individuals interested in providing space for these gardens; interested parties can contact [email protected] for more information.

The Growing CSA Market and Local Food Systems

The popularity of CSAs has been steadily increasing in recent years, driven by consumer demand for locally sourced, sustainable food. According to the USDA, the number of CSAs in the United States has grown significantly over the past two decades, reflecting a broader shift towards supporting local farmers and reducing the environmental impact of food transportation. The LSI Global Green CSA taps into this trend while simultaneously addressing the unique needs of refugee farmers.

Lutheran Services in Iowa also offers a traditional CSA subscription through their Local Food Marketplace, guaranteeing a steady supply of fresh vegetables harvested at peak season. This provides a convenient option for consumers who prefer a pre-packed, readily available selection of produce.

What’s Next for Global Greens

The immediate next step for prospective subscribers is to sign up for a 2026 CSA share through the LSI website here. LSI will continue to operate the Global Greens International Market, providing an additional outlet for farmers to sell their produce directly to the public. Looking ahead, LSI plans to continue expanding its partnerships and programs to reach more refugee farmers and increase access to healthy food options throughout Central Iowa. The organization will also be monitoring the impact of the Double Up Food Bucks program and exploring opportunities to further enhance its affordability for SNAP participants.