Meet our founder, Jakob Zernick. Jakob is currently a student at Central Cambria High School in Ebensburg, PA.
Photo Credit: Kristi Jan Hoover, www.kristijanhoover.com, 814-241-8670 
In 2014, Jakob was diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease at age 8.
Jakob received care from UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh and was moved by the outstanding care he received as well as the experience of his fellow patients.
He was left with one question…
"How can I make a difference in the lives of the other kids with illnesses?"
He turned to his love for gardening.
He realized that through the sale of produce as well as the ability to teach others about gardening, he could raise funds for Children’s Hospital.
Jakob raises funds from selling vegetables he grows from seed in his garden, donations, and various fundraisers.
Photo Credit: Kristi Jan Hoover, www.kristijanhoover.com, 814-241-8670
With those funds, he purchased toys, games, books and blankets for the kids at Children’s Hospital every 8 weeks when he receives his infusion treatments for Crohn’s.
Over the past several years, he continues to support Children’s Hospital, but also provides care packages to kids with illnesses across the U. S. Care packages are made for all of the members of the family to provide comfort during a difficult time.
Jakob’s goal is to inspire other kids through his love for gardening and his passion for helping the kids that help the most.
Seedz 4 Needz, Inc. has raised over $100,000. Jakob has had the opportunity to speak at local clubs such as Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, VFW, Catholic Daughters of America, and the Penn State Master Gardener’s Org.
People all over the United States and around the globe are helping to promote Seedz 4 Needz by purchasing plants, veggies, making donations and wearing their t-shirts in the various places they live and visit. They also help by spreading Jakob’s message and telling about his story.
Seedz 4 Needz shirts have been spotted in all 50 states and over 30 countries.
If you know of a child facing an illness, please contact the Seedz 4 Needz at seedz4needz@gmail.com or via social media.
