MOOSE JAW — A new community initiative is set to brighten weekends through the sale of vibrant sunflower plants, as the Moose Jaw Co-op partners with local gardeners Len and Bernie Mintenko to support the Moose Jaw Humane Society with "Sunflower Saturdays."
Starting May 24, and running for four consecutive Saturdays until concluding on June 14, the Mintenkos will be stationed outside the Moose Jaw Co-op Food Store from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Situated at the front entrance to the store, they will offer over five varieties of sunflowers, each cultivated with care in their own garden.
"Sunflower Saturdays at Moose Jaw Co-op is a new and exciting initiative we’re proud to support," said Michaela Turner, the Co-op’s marketing and community relations manager.
"It’s about more than just sunflowers — it’s about connecting community, supporting pollinators, and raising funds for the Moose Jaw Humane Society."
Each sunflower plant is priced at $2, with $0.50 from every sale directly benefiting the humane society. The Mintenkos have been growing approximately 1,200 sunflowers annually since 2022, initially to support Ukrainian refugees and later expanding to various local causes with one worthy recipient selected each spring. This year the Mintenkos planted 1,900 sunflowers, with their focus returning to the Moose Jaw Humane Society, reflecting the couple’s commitment to animal welfare.
"We're really excited to partner this year with the Co-op and they’re helping us raise money," Len Mintenko said.
The sunflower varieties available include the towering Helianthus giganteus and Kong, the colourful Velvet Queen, and the compact Teddy Bear and Dwarf types, suitable for pots or flower beds. Mintenko advises enthusiasts to attend early or contact them directly, as certain varieties tend to sell out quickly.
"Usually, the fancier varieties, like Teddy Bear, Velvet Queen, and Dwarf, go very quickly," he noted. "We usually have lots of giganteus and Kong. The Helianthus giganteus grow up to 12 feet (approximately 3.7 metres) high, producing one big head. Kongs can grow as high, but they branch out with multiple heads.”
Beyond fundraising, the initiative also emphasizes environmental consciousness.
"All our pollinators are being challenged right now, so it's a good idea to give something for the bees and the hummingbirds and (all other pollinator species) to help them out," Mintenko said. According to a recent Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences study, pollinator populations across North America are in decline, with more than 22 per cent of species at risk of extinction. In Saskatchewan, this includes native bees such as Suckley’s cuckoo bumblebee and the yellow-banded bumblebee.
The Moose Jaw Co-op is contributing to the project by providing potting soil from its Agro Centre and offering a new space for the Mintenkos.
"We’re so grateful to support Len and Bernie and their incredible passion for growing and giving back," Turner said. "This partnership aligns beautifully with our values at Moose Jaw Co-op, being a community leader, and everyone matters — including the animals and the bees!"
Residents are encouraged to visit the Moose Jaw Co-op during Sunflower Saturdays to purchase plants, seek gardening advice, and support a meaningful cause.
"We hope community members will stop by, say hello, and pick up a sunflower or two," Turner added. "Whether you’re planting it in your garden or gifting it to a friend, it’s a gesture rooted in kindness."
Those hoping to purchase specific sunflower varieties are encouraged to arrive early or contact the Mintenkos directly at 306-693-1728.
The Moose Jaw Co-op Food Store is located at 500 First Avenue Northwest.
