Northside Fresh Coalition is set to host its 14th annual Seed & Plant Distribution event on Friday, May 17, at Sanctuary Covenant Church, 710 W. Broadway Ave. The free event invites North Minneapolis residents to pick up seeds, seedlings, and gardening resources to support homegrown food and community well-being.
Rooted in food justice and sustainability, the event is a cornerstone of Northside Fresh’s work to build a self-reliant, locally owned food system in North Minneapolis.
A grassroots tradition rooted in health and equity
Launched in 2008 by NorthPoint Health and Wellness Center and now incubated by Appetite for Change, Northside Fresh is a coalition of over 60 local residents, organizations, and businesses. The group collaborates on initiatives like the West Broadway Farmers Market and the Fresh Corners Growers Cooperative, working to make fresh food more accessible and affordable in the community.
The annual Seed & Plant Distribution plays a key role in this mission—offering more than 500 plants and thousands of seeds to community members at no cost. The goal: empower residents to grow culturally relevant produce and strengthen food sovereignty across North Minneapolis.
From collards to community-building
Past giveaways have included favorites like collard greens, kale, and black-eyed peas—staples in African American culinary traditions. Volunteers, including students from The Blake School, have helped create a welcoming atmosphere where people of all ages can connect over shared goals.
“Food really is a tool to build health, wealth, and social change,” said Michelle Horovitz, co-founder of Appetite for Change. “And that’s our mission.”
The event also provides educational materials and guidance from experienced growers to support both novice and seasoned gardeners.
Bring a box, grow a movement
Residents planning to attend are encouraged to bring a container or box for their seedlings. The event operates on a donation basis, ensuring that cost is never a barrier.
Through programs like the Seed & Plant Distribution, Northside Fresh continues to cultivate a more just and resilient food system—led by the community, for the community.
For more information about the coalition’s work and upcoming events, visit northsidefresh.org.