Veterans grow food and community with MSU Extension seed program
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EmailThe SNAP Outreach for Veterans program is improving lives.
When Lilly and Andy Klatt, both military veterans, received seed packets from Michigan State University Extension last spring, they saw it as a fun way to grow vegetables at home. What began as a backyard project soon brought them closer together and to their community.
Through the SNAP for Vets Seeds in Action initiative, veteran families across Michigan are finding new ways to grow food, strengthen connections and give back.
“We really enjoyed working in the garden together,” Andy said. “It gave us a reason to spend more time outside, watching everything grow, and then sharing the results.”
The tomato plants the Klatt’s grew from the MSU Extension seeds produced more than they could use. Instead of letting food go to waste, they dried the tomatoes along with other vegetables they had available, including onions, jalapeños, basil, and oregano to create a homemade seasoning blend they call “pizza powder.”
“We use it on everything,” Andy said. “Bagels with cream cheese, eggs, pizza sauce—you name it.” Lilly added, “We have made enough this year that we did give several seasoning bottles away actually!”
Across the state, another family found similar success. Anita Heeke, CEO of Pineberry Dairy and Farm, worked with her son, Brian Heeke, a military veteran, to plant summer squash from the seed packets. The harvest was so abundant that they donated armfuls to veterans and veteran families in need.
One squash even made its way to the Michigan State Fair, where Brian earned second place.
The garden became a family affair, bringing joy to Anita’s 4-year-old granddaughter. Seeing the overflowing squash, she exclaimed: “Grandma, look at all those bananas!”
Program leaders say these stories show how gardening can support both nutrition and community among veterans.
“Seeds in Action helps veterans and their families build healthy habits while creating connections that go beyond the garden,” said Michelle Luttrell, a SNAP Outreach for Veterans program instructor with MSU Extension. “It’s about providing access to fresh food, building community and making sure veterans know that they are supported in every part of their well-being.”
The Seeds in Action initiative is part of MSU Extension’s efforts to support veterans and their families through gardening, nutrition and community engagement. The types of seeds provided by the program can vary, but in the past, they included tomatoes, green bell peppers, lettuce, and yellow squash.
SNAP Outreach for Veterans
MSU Extension provides veterans with programs and services that support personal and financial wellness. Whether you’re currently serving, were recently discharged or served decades ago, MSU Extension wants to support the success of you, your family and your business.
Learn about MSU Extension’s Veteran Outreach Programs online.
SNAP Outreach for Vets: Explains the SNAP food assistance program and offers enrollment assistance to veterans
To request free SNAP Outreach materials, order online at: https://bit.ly/SNAPOutreachForVets
