A chilly downpour didn’t stop Kellogg volunteers from fighting hunger in Battle Creek.

On June 9, community members came together with United Way BCKR and Kellogg’s® Raisin Bran® volunteers today to enhance local community gardens at Leila Arboretum. Their aim was to make sure people in need have access to fresh fruits and vegetables. Despite rainy weather, 25 volunteers built and painted picnic tables near the established gardens to enhance the social aspects of community gardening.

“These community gardens address food deserts, which are low-income areas located more than one mile from a grocery store,” said Matt Lynn, Vice President of Community Impact at United Way. “Community gardens like those at Leila Arboretum often provide the only access some people have to fresh produce.”

According to Kathy Antaya, who manages the community gardens, about 50 families in the Battle Creek area rely on the gardens for food.

The volunteer effort is part of Kellogg and United Way’s United Against Food Deserts initiative taking place in nine communities across the country this summer.

“As a global food leader, Kellogg is passionate about fighting hunger and feeding people’s potential,” said Kris Charles, Kellogg Company senior vice president, Global Corporate Affairs. “That’s why we’re partnering with United Way to help make sure there is enough food for everyone.”

United Against Food Deserts is part of Kellogg Company’s global signature cause, Breakfasts for Better Days™. Kellogg has committed to creating three billion Better Days around the world by the end of 2025 by feeding people in need, expanding feeding and nutrition education programs, helping farmers increase yields, encouraging employee volunteerism and engaging people in the important topic of food security.