Winter is often a season of giving, a time to spread joy, connect with loved ones, and maybe exchange gifts. If you’re able, it’s also a great time to give back to the community. Since the onset of the pandemic, individuals and families experiencing housing and food insecurity has increased exponentially. Nationally and locally food banks have seen an unprecedented rise in demand, a trend that is expected to continue throughout the winter holidays. This December, co-op shoppers have a number of opportunities to support a few of our community partners that help individuals and families in our communities experiencing food insecurity.

Donate Non-Perishables at Seward Co-op Stores

Now through Dec. 23 we are participating in to Second Harvest Heartland’s holiday food drive. Second Harvest Heartland is a hunger-relief organization that strives to end hunger together through leadership, innovation and community partnerships. Second Harvest Heartland is a member of Feeding America—the nationwide network of more than 200 food banks serving every state in the United States.

In addition to the Second Harvest Heartland’s food drive, consider also donating non-perishable food items to the Aliveness Project. Seward Co-op has an ongoing relationship with The Aliveness Project. Shoppers donate non-perishable food to this food shelf year round. The Aliveness Project is a community center that links people living with HIV to resources for leading healthy, self-directed lives. In addition to the several health and wellness services, The Aliveness Project offers meals and a food shelf.

Donations for both Second Harvest Heartland and The Aliveness Project are accepted at the front of both our Friendship and Franklin stores.

Round Up for SEED!

Our December SEED recipient is Full Cycle Bike Shop. Full Cycle is a youth-staffed, nonprofit bike shop that helps homeless youth gain independence through free bike appointments, paid internships, and food access programs. SEED funds will go towards supporting Full Cycle’s food deliveries and pop-up meals at local shelters. Co-op shoppers can round-up or tack on any dollar amount of their grocery bill. You can also donate when you shop online through Seward To Go Delivery or Curbside Pickup.

Together as a cooperative partnered with these vital local organizations, we can help to sustain a healthy community.