In 2023, Meijer launched a regional seed donation program to support communities in need. By 2024, the initiative has blossomed into a statewide effort, reaching more families and organizations across six states. The evolution of this program has led to a more streamlined and impactful distribution system, moving from individual store requests to a coordinated effort with major seed suppliers, ensuring wider access to essential resources.
One of the key players in this growth has been the Greater Lansing Food Bank (GLFB), which has been instrumental in spreading the program’s benefits throughout the Midwest. Mike Tosto, GLFB’s Garden Project Resource Specialist, shares how the program has transformed lives: “The seed donations from Meijer have allowed us to serve over 800 unique individuals per season, helping us amplify our community outreach efforts.”
In 2024, GLFB’s Garden Project distributed over 16,200 seed packets at its Resource Center in Lansing, an increase from nearly 11,600 packets in 2023. In addition, the Garden-to-Go kit program will distribute 42,000 seed packets this spring — up from 36,000 last year. These kits, which feature organic seeds from Meijer and Burpee, will be delivered to mid-Michigan communities, including Clare, Charlotte, Harrison, and Ovid/Elsie, empowering local residents to grow their own food.
The program’s impact extends beyond Lansing. In collaboration with over 80 community gardens and organizations like the Refugee Development Center and Cristo Rey food pantry, the seed donation program is touching lives across the region. Notably, Forgotten Harvest, a Feeding America partner, recently collected two pallets of seed racks from GLFB to distribute in Detroit and its metro area.
“It’s inspiring to see how something as simple as a seed packet can unite communities and foster self-sufficiency,” Tosto said. “Through these partnerships, we’re not just planting seeds in gardens — we’re sowing the seeds of hope and resilience.”
This year’s expanded seed rack donation program is expected to reach 8,200 families within GLFB’s service area. With further plans to grow the program in 2025, the initiative’s reach is set to increase even more, bringing essential resources to communities facing food insecurity.
Meanwhile, volunteers at GLFB’s South Lansing greenhouse have been busy growing approximately 43,000 plants, many of which come from Burpee seed packets. Over 500 volunteer hours have been dedicated to sorting seeds, assembling kits, and building seed libraries, showcasing the dedication of the community in supporting the program’s mission.
Looking ahead, the Garden Project aims to continue expanding its partnerships and seed distribution efforts. By connecting more individuals and agencies, the program hopes to strengthen its mission of hunger relief and sustainability across the Midwest.
“Together, with Meijer, we’re cultivating not just gardens, but also hope,” Tosto said. “The seed donation program has truly become a catalyst for change in Lansing and beyond.”
