Mother’s Day has always been a celebration of those in our lives who nurture and care for us, and today we celebrate the mothers in our lives. Over time, we’ve expanded what motherhood means and acknowledged that motherhood doesn’t always correspond with the person who gave birth to us. In celebrating Mother’s Day, at Seward Co-op we also honor those who stepped in as mothers in our lives. And as a cooperative community, we take care and consider those for whom Mother’s Day is a time for mourning or self-care. This includes those who have miscarried or lost children too soon, those whose mothers have passed, are not able to have a presence in their lives, and those who have complicated relationships with their mothers. Whether you spend this Mother’s Day with your loved ones or take some time for yourself, the co-op has what you need for pampering and relaxation.

Relax and Pamper with Alaffia

Community Foods producer Alaffia is a small-scale, fair trade, cooperatively owned business. Their goal is to empower African communities through the advancement of fair trade, education, sustainable living and gender equality. Purchasing Alaffia ensures the basic needs of those producing their products are met for a dignified life, which allows Togolese communities to provide their skills and knowledge to the rest of the world and rise out of poverty. In 2006, Alaffia started their Maternal Health Project following the World Health Organization’s recommendations for reducing maternal death rates, so purchasing their products also means supporting mothers!

Foster Growth with Starter Plants

Many enjoy the peace that comes from nurturing plants in a garden, and starter plants have begun to arrive at Seward Co-op just in time for Mother’s Day. Local, small-scale producers Green Earth Growers, Twin Organics, and The Farm of Minnesota offer a wide selection of starter plants: vegetables, fruit, herbs, and flowers for sale. If fresh-cut flowers are preferred, we also have many beautiful locally sourced bouquets available from Len Busch Roses.

Support Small-Scale Family Business with Velvet Bear

Velvet Bear is comprised of Cindy Caverzagie, a former Seward Co-op Wellness employee, and her 16-year-old daughter, Elanor. Cindy makes her own earrings with a combination of new and recycled objects, and sources her new materials from other small business owners. Her daughter Elanor designs and prints all of her own cards. Each design is her own original art printed on Stafford recycled card stock.