A trio of siblings in Stratford, Ontario, is reaping the rewards of their hard work this summer with a self-run sweet corn stand. Lincoln, aged 12, Leo, aged 10, and Camilla, aged 5, have transformed months of planting, tending, and waiting into a successful venture on St. Vincent St. South.
Every morning, Lincoln and Leo meticulously arrange freshly picked corn into a display, wheel it out to the roadside, and set up their stand with a range of payment options, including e-transfers. By 5 o’clock, their supply is usually completely sold out, a testament to the community’s support.
Their mother, Jodi Hart, initiated the project to instill financial literacy and the value of diligence in her children. The siblings have had to make sacrifices, like passing up on social activities to focus on their corn business. Through disagreements and problem-solving, they are learning teamwork and resilience, essential skills for future endeavors.
The joy of seeing locals purchase and relish their produce motivates Lincoln, who intends to save most of his earnings with a small indulgence in mind – potentially a couple of ice cream scoops. Beyond the monetary gains, this family project is nurturing a sense of accomplishment and community spirit among the young entrepreneurs.