March-April 2025 Newsletter
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE
A healthier Linn County starts around the dinner table, with your support!
Each month, as I reflect on what’s new and meaningful to share, I think about our community, the work we do at Feed, and the world around us. Lately, the news can feel especially heavy, revealing difficult truths and ongoing challenges for our most vulnerable neighbors. In those moments, it’s understandable to feel overwhelmed. Still, even as we stay committed to advocating for care and equity, it’s just as important to hold on to hope. Justice requires both action and compassion—and the belief that change is possible.
For me, empathy is not a sign of weakness. It’s a powerful force that connects us, strengthens us, and brings out the best in who we are.
At Feed, spring marks the start of our planting season and the beginning of a busy, energizing time that carries us through summer and fall. It’s also a time when we see the most connection—with volunteers, with neighbors, and with the land itself. We’re deeply grateful to the many hands and hearts who stand with us, and we invite you to join in. Volunteering is a meaningful way to support your community, spend time outdoors, and find joy in shared purpose. To get involved, you can reach out to Melanie at Distribution@feediowa1st.com or Natalie at Outreach@feediowa1st.com. Whether you come with friends, coworkers, or on your own, we welcome you warmly.
However you choose to engage this season, know that giving back—even in small ways—has the power to uplift both others and yourself.
As we move forward into this season of growth, may we all find strength in connection, inspiration in purpose, and hope in each seed we sow. Thank you for being a part of this journey. Together, we cultivate not just food, but community, resilience, and a future rooted in care.
Jody Josten
Executive Director
NEWS
Wanatee Farm Updates
Wanatee Farm is receiving a significant upgrade this season with the installation of a new, permanent deer fence—a much-needed improvement that will enhance both the protection and productivity of the site. This project involves a great deal of manual labor from our dedicated team, as we work to carefully remove the temporary poly fencing and replace it with a much sturdier solution.
The new fence is designed to be more resilient, specifically chosen to withstand wear and tear and prevent animals—including our persistent deer neighbors—from chewing through and gaining access to the crops. This upgrade will help ensure a more secure environment for our growing spaces, reducing crop loss and the need for repeated repairs. Our goal is to complete the installation this spring so we can head into the rest of the season with confidence. Meanwhile, the farm is already buzzing with activity as we’ve planted our first round of crops, officially kicking off the growing season at Wanatee Farm.
Laura Tirado
Wanatee Farm Manager
Urban Farm Updates
March was a month of preparation as we focused on planning, organizing, and starting seeds to set the stage for a successful season. Despite spring showers, April brought a surge of activity as we transitioned into full production. Early in the month, we built a new fence at Faith Lutheran Church and assisted with fence construction at Wanatee Farm.
Mid-April was packed with essential fieldwork, including tilling, installing irrigation systems, laying down plastic and straw, and transplanting crops into the ground. We also hosted a training night for our Site Ambassadors to gear up for the season ahead. Throughout April, we planted a diverse range of crops—leeks, kale, lettuce, turnips, broccoli, onions, potatoes, Swiss chard, and radishes—across several urban farm sites. It’s been a productive and energizing start to the growing season for Urban Farms!
Isabel Schmidt
Urban Farm Manager
Equitable Land Access Updates
Spring is in full swing! In March, we held our Farm Business Incubator program orientation. It was a great opportunity to gather all participating farmers, build community, and set the tone for the upcoming season. We also kicked off our 2025 spring training series, featuring workshops on selling produce through food hubs, crafting a compelling sales pitch for distributors and restaurants, and managing personal and business finances.
Behind the scenes, we’re making big strides in expanding our farmers’ networks. Recent efforts include participating in the Linn County Food Symposium, becoming a member of the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance, and hosting one-on-one meetings with key local food partners.
Meanwhile, out in the fields, we’ve been hard at work supporting farmers and gardeners at Wanatee Farm and other Community Agriculture sites with setting up irrigation systems—just in time for planting those first spring crops.
Alora Kraus
Equitable Land Access Program Director
Distribution Updates
From March through April, Feed Iowa First successfully distributed approximately 1000 lbs. of fresh produce—including lettuce, basil, and cherry tomatoes—throughout Linn County. This would not have been possible without the generous contributions from Hill Top Greens. Thanks to their support, we were able to serve numerous local pantries, community kitchens, food banks, and healthcare clinics.
As we prepare for our peak distribution season, we’re excited to invite volunteers to join us for upcoming opportunities, including Monday evening prep nights and our mobile “Veggie Van” events. If you or someone you know is interested in making a direct impact, we encourage you to fill out our Volunteer Sign Up for 2025 to stay informed about future events.
For those interested in helping with our “Veggie Van” distributions, you can reserve a date and location for which you would like to volunteer, by visiting our Sign-Up Genius
If you have any questions about volunteering for our 2025 distribution season, please reach out to our Distribution Coordinator at Distribution@feediowa1st.com. We look forward to working with you to nourish our community!
Melanie Fetter
Food Safety and Distribution Coordinator
EVENTS
Feed Iowa First Plant Sale
Join us on Saturday, May 10th from 10am-1pm at NewBo City Market (1100 3rd St SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401) for our annual Plant Sale!
We’ll have a variety of garden-ready plants for sale, with all proceeds supporting our mission to grow food and increase access for our neighbors in need. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just getting started, stop by, pick up some plants, and support a great cause!
If you have preordered, pick-ups will be happening at the Feed Iowa First Shop (1506 10th St SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401) on Friday, May 9th from 8am-3pm or at the Plant Sale on Saturday, May 10th
Produce Shed is Open!
Do you have extra veggies in your garden? Don’t let them go to waste and drop them off at the Produce Shed!
Located at 1506 10th St SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401.
We accept fresh fruits and vegetables that have not been sprayed and we do all of the washing and sanitizing before distribution!
Drop-offs are accepted Monday-Friday, from 6am-4pm.
All you have to do is place the produce in our cooler, and fill out the form, we will do all the rest.
Volunteer GAP Training
Where: 1506 10th St SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401
When: May 19th 2025
Time: 5:30pm-6:30pm
What to bring: Yourself!
For more information about volunteering with Feed, fill out the forms above, check out our website, or reach out to Outreach@feediowa1st.com.
Urban Farm Volunteer Dates:
Thursday, May 22nd – ADM: Planting squash, weeding
Friday, May 23rd – Marion Methodist: Planting peppers, weeding
Tuesday, May 27th – Faith Lutheran: Planting, weeding
Tuesday, June 17th – St. Andrew: Planting potatoes, weeding
Wednesday, June 19th– Marion Methodist: Planting cabbage, weeding
SHOUTOUTS
Feed Iowa First Annual Report 2024
In 2024, Feed Iowa First grew over 43,000 pounds of fresh produce and delivered food to more than 3,000 neighbors across Linn County. From expanding our farm spaces to deepening partnerships that support emerging farmers, this year was full of meaningful growth. None of it would be possible without our incredible volunteers, partners, and supporters.
Take a look at our annual report on the Feed Iowa First website!
FOR YOU
Looking for a fun twist on a comfort food classic? These Monster Meatballs by Gabby Romero for Delish are big, bold, and bursting with flavor—perfect for pasta night!
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 1 lb. ground beef (preferably 80% lean)
- 1 lb. ground pork
- 2 tsp. kosher salt
- 1 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 large egg
- 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1 cup finely shredded or grated Parmesan
- 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 3 (15-oz.) cans crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tsp. dried oregano
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Large pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
- Cooked pasta and finely grated Parmesan, for serving
Directions
Meatballs
Step 1 – Arrange a rack in center of oven; preheat to 425°. In a large bowl, combine beef and pork; season with salt and black pepper. Add onion, egg, garlic, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, and parsley. Using your hands or a rubber spatula, mix until just combined.
Step 2 – Divide mixture into 4 pieces (about 11 oz. each) and form into a ball. Arrange on a baking sheet and drizzle tops with oil.
Step 3 – Bake meatballs until tops and bottoms start to turn brown, about 15 minutes.
Marinara & Assembly
Step 1 – In a large Dutch oven or heavy ovenproof pot over medium heat, heat oil. Add onions and garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 7 minutes. Add tomatoes and water and stir to combine. Add basil and oregano; season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer, stirring often, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until slightly reduced and flavors have melded, about 10 minutes.
Step 2 – Reduce oven temperature to 325°. Transfer meatballs to marinara and spoon sauce over.
Step 3 – Continue to bake until meatballs are cooked through, and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center registers 165°, about 30 minutes more.
Step 4 – Serve meatballs with pasta. Spoon more sauce over. Top with Parmesan.
Natalie Jasso
Marketing and Outreach Coordinator
SUPPORT US
Your donation will not only provide employment opportunities within our community but also enhance our ability to serve more individuals and families in need of locally grown, nourishing food. Your contribution, no matter the amount, will make a significant impact on our mission. Please consider donating today to help us build a healthier, more food-secure future for all.
Considerations for donation:
- Donation from your IRA.
- Double your Donation: Check to see if your company matches. Collins Aerospace matches 100% and we are also on the match list for ADM, Alliant and many other companies.
- Facebook Fundraiser.
- Check or online donation.
- Corporate Matching: If you work for a company that offers donation matching, your contribution to Feed Iowa First may be matched by your employer. Check with your HR department for details.
- Legacy Gifts: Include Feed Iowa First in your estate planning by leaving a bequest in your will or making us a beneficiary of a life insurance policy or retirement account. You can also donate to the Feed Iowa First Endowment.
- Volunteer Your Time: While not a monetary donation, donating your time and skills as a volunteer can be invaluable to organizations like Feed Iowa First. You can help with planting, harvesting, sorting, and distributing food to those in need.
- Fundraising Events: Participate in or organize fundraising events on behalf of Feed Iowa First. These can include charity runs, bake sales, auctions, or any other creative fundraising ideas.
- Donate Equipment or Supplies: If you have gardening or farming equipment, seeds, or other supplies that could be useful for Feed Iowa First’s operations, consider donating them.
Donate: https://www.feediowa1st.com/donate/
Our monthly newsletter is a great way of keeping up with us, but be sure to check us out on Facebook and Instagram too so you can always be in the know about what’s up at Feed!
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