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Easton’s Petal Promise

Project aims to spread kindness with flowers

By Terri Castelaz 4 min read

FELCH TOWNSHIP -- What started with a 3-year-old's wish to replace withered flowers at a cemetery gravesite has blossomed into Easton's Petal Promise, a community project dedicated to spreading kindness one bouquet at a time.

Easton Gustafson, daughter of Rachel and Bradley Gustafson Jr. of Felch Township, is the inspiration behind the initiative to uplift others through the gift of flowers.

"She may be little but has the biggest heart, and loves flowers and making people smile," her mother said.

The idea was born during one of the family's early morning side-by-side rides around the Felch Township Cemetery.

According to Rachel Gustafson, Easton has always been drawn to one particular headstone and often notices when the flowers left have faded. "She will also point out the artificial pieces that have been turned over and will stand them back up," she said.

Gustafson said one day while walking over to the gravesite, Easton immediately recognized the condition of the flowers on the headstone. "She said, 'Mom, let's go get new flowers,'" she said.

Without hesitation, Easton gathered a bouquet of wildflowers from the nearby wooded area and carefully placed them on the grave.

"That's what sparked the idea," she said.

Gustafson explained that she had been looking for a meaningful way to involve Easton and her younger brother, Beau, in giving back to the community. Easton's Petal Promise, proved to be the perfect fit.

The new initiative uses community donations to purchase floral arrangements to replace those faded or weathered at local cemeteries, and to purchase fresh bouquets for hospital patients, nursing home residents, health care workers and those who could use uplifting.

The response of donations from the area residents has already exceeded expectations, she said.

"We want to keep gravesites beautiful and ensure loved ones are remembered with care and dignity," Gustafson said. "It's amazing how a simple bouquet of flowers can bring a smile, start a conversation and show someone they are cared about."

A recent delivery was especially meaningful when Easton brought flowers to the nurse who cares for her grandmother during her hospital visits.

The family hopes to make deliveries once a week and expand the project as support continues to grow.

"We want to do this for strangers," Gustafson said. "We'd like to try to make a difference. We'd like to make this big."

Gustafson is also partnering with Felch Township Clerk Darrell Oman, who oversees cemetery operations, on future projects aimed at revitalizing the cemetery grounds.

The family is asking the public as well to nominate people who would enjoy receiving a surprise flower delivery.

"Whether someone is recovering from an illness, grieving the loss of a loved one, celebrating a special milestone, feeling lonely or simply in need of encouragement, Easton would love to brighten their day," Gustafson said.

For the Gustafsons, one of the most rewarding parts of Easton's Petal Promise is watching their daughter share simple acts of kindness with the community.

"She's learning one of life's greatest lessons: the importance of compassion and helping others," Gustafson said. "Even small expressions of love can make a big difference in someone's life."

Donations to support the project can be made through Venmo at @RachGustafson, Cash App to $rachgustafson or mailed to Easton Gustafson, P.O. Box 122, Felch, MI 49831.

"We are incredibly grateful for everyone who has already donated," she said. "Every dollar helps to honor loved ones and bring someone hope."

The Gustafsons have plans to do a lemonade stand in the near future to help raise money. Everyone is encouraged to keep watch for more details.

Supporters can follow Easton's Petal Promise Facebook page for updates. Photos and stories will be shared to allow donors to see how their generosity has made an impact.

"We're excited to help keep memories blooming, while bringing smiles to those who need them most," Gustafson said.

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Terri Castelaz can be reached at 906-774-2772, ext. 85241, or tcastelaz@ironmountaindailynews.com.

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