The Green Patch Program Grows in to the Seedling Fund!

In 1996, the co-op started the green patch program. For the past 20 years, co-op members have been donating their 5 cent bag credits to local environmental groups that they’ve elected to support through member vote. Our green patch totals have added up to over $45,000 given to green groups in need of financial assistance. The co-op community has supported Youth Farm, Fruits of the City, Sustainable Farming Association, Climate Generation: A Will Steger Legacy, and Cool Planet just in the last few years. Linden Hills Co-op is proud to maintain a program that does so much good for the environment and our community.

As we celebrate the 20th anniversary of the green patch program, it’s time for the program to evolve. As of July 1st, we are renaming the green patch program the Seedling Fund. The new name reminds us to stay rooted in our commitment to the environment and continue to help local environmental groups grow. As a part of this change, we are transitioning to electronic “green patches.”  At the registers, your cashier will simply ask you if you would like to keep or donate your bag credit at the end of your transaction. If you choose to keep you bag credit, 5 cents per reusable bag used will be taken off your bill. If you choose to donate your bag credit, those credits will go to the current member- elected environmental group. On your receipt, you’ll see your donation listed by the name of the organization you’re supporting, yet there will be no extra charge.  The money for the Seedling Fund comes from the co-op. Our members decide how much the co-op gives our environmental groups based on how many bag credits are donated throughout the year.

We are now accepting nominations for recipients of the 2016-17 Seedling Fund! 

Members are invited to nominate environmental groups to be a recipient of the Seedling Fund now through August 21st. Print a nomination form or pick one up at the customer service desk. Members will elect two nominated groups to support during the 2016-17 fiscal year at the Annual Meeting in October.

Thank you for your support of our local environmental organizations over the past 20 years! We’re looking forward to continuing the support with the Seedling Fund!