HILLSDALE COUNTY, Mich. (WILX) – All it takes to overcome some of life’s toughest situations is a “seed of hope,” and that philosophy has certainly taken root for a Mid-Michigan couple who are making an impact one popcorn kernel at a time.
On his Hillsdale County farm, Hank Blackman uses a vintage tractor to grow strawberry popcorn on five acres without using any chemicals or pesticides.
The first question many people ask is, “Does it taste like a strawberry?” The answer is no. It gets its name from its dark red seeds and small spikes that look a bit like strawberries.
Hank and his wife, Tami, sell their traditional popcorn from a large strawberry-red trailer that they set up in parking lots and at farmers’ markets.
“Popcorn gives us a unique way to engage with the community, share literature and resources, and share our stories,” Tami said.
Tami’s story began years before she met Hank. She said her previous marriage was riddled with domestic violence.
“The emotional and psychological abuse was so bad, I was just devastated,” Tami recalls.
Tami said when she emerged from an abusive relationship, she started a Facebook page called “Seed of Hope” where victims of domestic violence can share their stories, hope and encouragement. Tami said the Seed of Hope Facebook page took on a new direction when she and Hank married.
“He came in one day and said, ‘I’ve got it! Seed of Hope strawberry popcorn,’ so we put the two together,” Tami said.
Her desire to help victims of domestic violence and his family’s history of growing strawberry popcorn made them a great match, and together they now raise awareness of domestic violence with every jar and bag of strawberry popcorn they sell.
Tami said all profits will go towards planting more seeds or funding resources and programs that help women escape domestic violence.
“Our community is amazing, so supportive and encouraging, we love living here and love giving back whenever we get the chance,” Tami said.
(Wilkes)
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