PanAmerican Seed chooses Roots for Youth as its Beacon Impatiens charitable partner for 2026
PanAmerican Seed has chosen Roots for Youth, an organization founded by the Bradford Greenhouses Family Trust in Ontario, Canada, as the charity it will support for the 2026 gardening season through its Beacon Impatiens brand.
The organization empowers teens and young adults who have endured family tragedies by providing bursaries (scholarships) for postsecondary education.
Roots for Youth director and president Len Ferragine has seen firsthand the heartache caused from a tragic family loss, and how the heavy burden of financial hardship can make pursuing education feel nearly impossible.
A lifelong friend and longtime employee passed suddenly at a young age, leaving behind a wife and teenaged children. This event kickstarted the charitable organization in 2018 to ensure the proceeds it raises go to deserving children in real need.
“Since helping that first family many years ago, we are now providing aid for 14 young students, paying 100% of their tuition to achieve their post-secondary education,” Ferragine said. “With Roots for Youth support, they can grow to become healthy and resilient contributors in their communities.”
“As we look ahead to 2026, we are committed to ensuring that many more students grappling with loss and hardship find the support they need,” said Jason Hemsworth, director and secretary, Roots for Youth. “Thank you, Beacon Impatiens, for joining us in this vital mission and for being a source of hope for those in difficult times.”
“The team behind Beacon Impatiens cares about making an impact in the lives of others, whether in their colorful gardens or by helping their dreams become reality,” said Sarah Makiejus, global marketing manager, PanAmerican Seed. “We look forward to supporting the Roots for Youth movement all season with the assistance of growers and gardeners around the world.”
Photo courtesy of PanAmerican Seed.
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