Cass County, IA — With the arrival of spring, the Grow Another Row initiative is excited to announce the reopening of its community produce stands beginning May 1. Now in another growing season, the program continues to expand access to fresh fruits and vegetables while bringing neighbors together across Cass County.
This year, Grow Another Row will operate 11 stands in communities throughout the county, offering convenient locations for residents to donate extra produce or pick up fresh items at no cost. While many stands will be available by May 1, some locations may open slightly later due to ongoing repairs and improvements. Organizers appreciate the community’s patience as they work to ensure each stand is safe and ready for use.
Several updates have been made for the 2026 season. A new stand at Cedar Park in Atlantic has been added, thanks to dedicated community volunteers who constructed the stand. In addition, the Massena stand has been relocated to the Phillips 66 gas station to improve visibility and accessibility. The Cumberland stand location has also been updated and is now located at 121 Main Street.
The initiative continues to operate under its guiding message:
“Share what you can. Take what you need.”
2026 Grow Another Row Stand Locations:
- Anita Food Pantry – 208 Chestnut St., Anita
- Atlantic Cedar Park – 204 Cedar St., Atlantic
- Atlantic Library – 507 Poplar St., Atlantic
- Atlantic Midtown Apartments – 1209 E. 8th St., Atlantic
- Atlantic Mollett Park – 1020 E. 3rd St., Atlantic
- Cumberland – 121 Main St., Cumberland
- Griswold Methodist Church – 100 Cass St., Griswold
- Lewis Library – 412 W. Main St., Lewis
- Marne Masonic Lodge – 418 2nd St., Marne
- Massena Historic Gas Station (Phillips 66) – 203 Main St., Massena
- Wiota – 108 Pioneer St., Wiota
Food Safety and Donation Reminders:
Participants are reminded not to wash produce before donating. Be sure to wash the produce before eating it. Contact Kate Olson at the Cass County Extension Office by calling (712) 243-1132 or email keolson@iastate.edu if you need produce bags or containers to package donations.
Community Connections and How to Stay Involved:
If produce is shared to the stands, you’re welcome to email Grace McAfee (mcage@casshealth.org) or share a photo on the Facebook Page (@CassCountyLocalFood). This will let the public know fresh produce is available for pick up! Please include the time, date dropped off and stand location to help us get the word out.
Grow Another Row is a collaborative effort powered by volunteers, local organizations, and community partners who are committed to reducing food insecurity and strengthening connections across Cass County. The stands will remain open from May 1 through mid-October, depending on growing conditions and community participation.
For more information on Grow Another Row visit https://www.casshealth.org/publichealth/growanotherrow/. Subscribe to our newsletter delivered via email during the growing season, featuring growing tips, volunteer opportunities, and current information on where to drop off and pick up available fresh produce. Email mcage@casshealth.org to be added to our mailing list for the 2026 growing season!
For information on Cass County food pantries, farmers markets and other locally-driven food initiatives, follow the Cass County Local Food Policy Council on Facebook @CassCountyLocalFood.
