We’re a Proud Partner of Kalamazoo Valley Gleaners & South Michigan Food Bank

This January, our office had the privilege of devoting time from our workdays to a service event at Kalamazoo Valley Gleaners, a local organization devoted to “taking a bite out of hunger.”

The mission of Kalamazoo Valley Gleaners is simple:

1. They collect surplus produce from local Kalamazoo area farmers (reducing food waste and saving it from ending up in the landfill).

2. With volunteers, like us, they wash, chop, dehydrate, and package the produce in their newly renovated facility.

3. They partner with reputable relief agencies to ship meals overseas to malnourished people in need.

Our 18 Weed Man volunteers used our service time to assist with washing, chopping, dehydrating, and packaging the food. “Everyone had a great time,” says Weed Man franchise owner (and volunteer) Nate DeVisser. “We really believe in the mission and we plan to make this a regular service opportunity for our employees throughout the year, as well as the food drive.”

In addition to partnering with Kalamazoo Valley Gleaners to fight hunger overseas, we also partner with South Michigan Food Bank for our annual Grassroots Giving food drive, which invites customers to donate non-perishable food and household items conveniently during their regularly scheduled lawn care services. Last year, thanks to our amazing customers, we raised an incredible 1,800 lbs of food (equal to an estimated 1,300 meals) for local families in need.

“[Weed Man’s] donation will have a significant impact in our community and directly aid our neighbors facing food insecurity. It takes a community to end hunger and together we are filling families' tables with the essential nutrition we all need to thrive!” says Hope Gilbride from South Michigan Food Bank.

Weed Man’s Grassroots Giving food drive will return during the fall season, and the Kalamazoo Valley gleaners welcome volunteers all year round!