Nonprofit Opens Greenhouse to Support Refugee Farmers in Iowa
Lutheran Services in Iowa (LSI) has opened a permanent greenhouse for its Global Greens program, which supports refugee and immigrant farmers. The new facility, located in Des Moines, provides a stable environment for farmers to start their plants from seed, offering tray space for rent and assistance with plant care. This development addresses a long-standing challenge of finding reliable greenhouse space, previously requiring farmers to travel long distances. The program, which includes about 20 garden sites and 250 gardeners, aims to help participants grow food and start their own businesses. Despite losing federal funding, LSI continues to support the program through community efforts and grants.