In a groundbreaking collaboration, the Urbandale Food Pantry officially began installation and planting of its first-ever community garden on May 8, 2026, marking a new chapter in local food security efforts. Partnering with Master Gardeners, the initiative aims to grow fresh produce directly for families accessing pantry services, while also creating opportunities for community connection and nutrition education.

The project, which involved volunteers and community partners, included the installation of raised garden beds, movement of over 15 tons of soil, and planting of the first crops for the growing season. This represents the first collaborative community garden between Master Gardeners and a food pantry site in the region, reflecting a broader trend of integrating food access with hands-on community engagement.

Patty Sneddon-Kisting, Chief Executive Officer of the Urbandale Food Pantry, highlighted the significance of the initiative: “In 2025 alone, local gardeners donated more than 16,000 pounds of homegrown produce to the pantry,” she said. “This garden is another step toward increasing access to fresh food while also creating opportunities for community connection, learning, and dignity-centered food support.”

The garden aligns with the pantry’s broader vision of establishing a community hub focused on food access, wellness, and supportive partnerships. The project has received support from local volunteers, the City of Urbandale, and community businesses, including Anderson Properties and Iowa Outdoor Products, which assisted with hauling and delivering soil for the site.

Who Benefits and How?

The Urbandale Food Pantry serves a diverse population in the Des Moines metropolitan area, where food insecurity remains a challenge despite economic growth. According to the Feeding America Network, over 12% of households in Polk County face food insecurity, a figure that has risen in recent years due to inflation and rising living costs.

The new community garden addresses this need by providing fresh, locally grown produce that is often lacking in traditional food pantry distributions. Master Gardeners bring expertise in sustainable agriculture, ensuring the garden’s long-term viability. Meanwhile, volunteers—including families served by the pantry—gain hands-on experience in gardening, which can translate into improved nutrition and self-sufficiency.

For the broader community, the garden serves as a model for how nonprofits and government agencies can collaborate to tackle systemic issues. The involvement of local businesses like Anderson Properties and Iowa Outdoor Products demonstrates how private-sector support can amplify the impact of grassroots initiatives.

What Happens Next?

The garden is expected to yield its first harvest in late summer 2026, with produce distributed directly to pantry clients. The Urbandale Food Pantry has indicated that this project is just the beginning, with plans to expand the garden in future seasons and potentially replicate the model at other locations.

Community members interested in volunteering, donating supplies, or learning more about the initiative are encouraged to contact the pantry directly. The garden’s success will also be tracked and shared publicly to inspire similar projects in neighboring communities.