We all know what it’s like to feel hungry, but not everyone has experienced true hunger and food insecurity. Across Oklahoma, access to healthy food remains a significant challenge. Depending on how you measure it, up to 55 of our 77 counties are considered food deserts: places where fresh, affordable groceries are difficult to find. But what if the solution starts with a simple seed?
This fall, The Kaleo Foundation is partnering with the Oklahoma Department of Career Tech, OSU Career Tech, and Family & Consumer Science programs to inspire the next generation of growers — right in their classrooms.
Through this new initiative, we’ve distributed 450 seed starter bags to STEM educators across the state. Each one includes a packet of flower seeds and encouragement to start planting this fall so students don’t have to wait until ideal conditions for growing vegetables. Using hydroponic systems, community gardens, and greenhouses, students are already putting these resources to work.
One intentional seed selection this year is the Cherokee Trail of Tears black bean. Originally carried by Cherokee ancestors during their forced relocation from their homes to Oklahoma, this seed represents resilience, culture, and the importance of sustaining heritage and history through agriculture.
We’re especially grateful to know the Wichita tribes have already sown seeds, and young students are proud of their sprouting plants. These are more than class projects — gardening teaches patience, failure, and success while also providing tangible and practical nutrition.
Thanks to our partners at OSU Extension and Ag in the Classroom, a full curriculum is now available to guide teachers and students through the growing process. And, a huge thank you to Home Depot for your seed donations and Frisco Texas Youth for sorting seeds for distribution. Together, we’re planting seeds in the soil and in the hearts of future gardeners across Oklahoma.