Sow and Grow

Free Seed Program

Every spring, the Free Seed Program is held in partnership with the Master Gardeners Program at the University of Rhode Island Cooperative Extension and the Master Gardeners Program at the University of Connecticut. The Ocean State Job Lot Charitable Foundation has donated 400,000 viable packets of non-GMO Burpee seeds since 2005 to be made available to individuals, nonprofit organizations, schools, churches and community gardens in the Northeast and surrounding areas.

400,000 seeds to individual and community gardeners in the Northeast

The goal of this program is to increase food security, encourage local food production and inspire the next generation of gardeners. Through seed packet distribution, seedling and produce donation efforts, and public events and educational workshops, the Free Seed Program has a positive impact on tens of thousands of people throughout New England.

Sow and Grow

Our Sow and Grow initiative, a pillar of the Free Seed Program and greenhouse supply initiative, focuses on donations of garden products like Miracle-Gro, flower bulbs, topsoil and fertilizer donated to schools, libraries, community gardens, churches, and garden clubs throughout southern New England. These types of garden products are essential to help keep a garden healthy, flourishing and maximizing the output of beautiful flowers, vegetables and more.