Kalona Realty Partners with ISU Extension for Crop Cart in Washington

The new initiative aims to increase access to fresh produce in the community.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

Jessica Yoder and Sarah Bigley of Kalona Realty are collaborating with Kerrie Willis of the P.L.A.N.T. Washington Community Garden and Orchard to bring a Crop Cart program to Washington, Iowa. The Crop Cart, provided through a partnership with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, will help increase access to fresh produce in the community.

Why it matters

The Crop Cart initiative is an effort to address food insecurity and improve nutrition in the Washington area. By bringing fresh, affordable produce directly to the community, the program aims to make healthy food more accessible, especially for underserved populations.

The details

The Crop Cart will be stocked with a variety of fruits and vegetables grown at the P.L.A.N.T. Washington Community Garden and Orchard. It will travel to different locations around the city, making it easier for residents to purchase fresh, local produce. The partnership between Kalona Realty, P.L.A.N.T. Washington, and ISU Extension will help ensure the long-term sustainability of the program.

  • The Crop Cart program is launching in February 2026.

The players

Jessica Yoder

A real estate agent with Kalona Realty.

Sarah Bigley

A real estate agent with Kalona Realty.

Kerrie Willis

The coordinator of the P.L.A.N.T. Washington Community Garden and Orchard.

Iowa State University Extension and Outreach

A statewide organization that provides educational programs and resources to communities across Iowa.

P.L.A.N.T. Washington Community Garden and Orchard

A community-based organization that operates a garden and orchard in Washington, Iowa.

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What they’re saying

“We're excited to partner with ISU Extension and P.L.A.N.T. Washington to bring fresh, affordable produce to our community. This Crop Cart will make a real difference in the lives of our residents.”

— Jessica Yoder, Real Estate Agent, Kalona Realty (kciiradio.com)

“The Crop Cart is a great way for us to share the bounty of our garden and orchard with the entire community. We're grateful for the support of Kalona Realty and ISU Extension to make this happen.”

— Kerrie Willis, Coordinator, P.L.A.N.T. Washington Community Garden and Orchard (kciiradio.com)

What’s next

The Crop Cart will begin operating in Washington in March 2026, with plans to expand the program to additional locations throughout the year.

The takeaway

The Crop Cart partnership demonstrates how community organizations, local businesses, and educational institutions can collaborate to improve food access and promote healthy living in underserved areas.