CISS meal Sign-Up

Central Iowa Shelter Services (CISS) was started in the winter of 1990 by downtown Des Moines churches, who decided to take turns feeding and housing those in need, using their facilities through the winter nights. The Shelter is located at 1420 Mulberry St. and provides emergency shelter, transitional housing for Veterans, Section 8 efficiency apartments, a health clinic, and individual case management for over 250 people.

It started small but now CISS provides services and guidance for many in need. For over 30 years, St. John's parishioners have provided meals twice a month. The faithful members of St. John’s currently provide food and supplies to feed 250 people. We hope to grow this ministry and create awareness for what this group brings to the community.

Ministry leaders and participants deliver the main meal. This includes casseroles, vegetables, salads, desserts, canisters of lemonade, cups, and napkins on the 18th and 19th of every month. Those who stay to serve provide set up and then serve the meal from 6:30pm-7:30pm (Approximately 6-8 people).

One (1) slot is asked to provide food for 40 people

It's an enriching and encouraging opportunity to serve and spend time with each other following in the ways of Christ. We invite anyone who may be interested in participating to sign up to prepare food and/or assist with serving the meal. This is an opportunity to get to know the team and to see how your time and talents can change the lives around you. Team leaders will provide an orientation and answer questions you may have!

Sign up to bring food and/or serve

We've learned through the years several best practices:

Ages 12 and up are permitted to volunteer, but youth (under 18) need an adult to accompany them.
Leave valuables at home or car (we do not have a secure coat closet). Wear closed-toed shoes.
Gloves, aprons, and hair nets (or wear a hat) are provided.
Casserole - Pasta, ham and beans, chicken with noodles or rice, meatloaf, fried or baked chicken. Casseroles work best in disposable pans (3-4) 9in by 13in pans or (1) 13in by 20in pan.
Vegetable - Corn, green beans, baked beans, potato casserole, rice casserole. 2 large #10 cans are available at Costco, Sam’s Club, Fareway, or Walmart.
Salads - Greens, with toppings, dressings, cottage cheese, coleslaw, potato salad are also appreciated!
Dessert - Brownies, cookies, or cake make serving options.
Lemonade - Places like Walmart, Sam’s Club, or Costco have large canisters of powdered lemonade. One (1) usually serves the whole dinner.
Napkins - Places like Walmart, Sam’s Club, or Costco. Napkins come in a package of 300.

Don't hesitate to reach out with any questions at sheltermeals@stjohnsdsm.org or call the church office at 515-243-7691.

Deliver items between 5:30 and 6:00 pm at the CISS kitchen entrance. Central Iowa Shelter and Services is located at 1420 Mulberry St, Des Moines, IA 50309.

Thank you all for your generosity of spirit.