By MCC staff
Saskatoon – Launching its fourth season on April 14, Grow Hope Saskatchewan continues its effort to end global hunger around the world.
Rick Block, Saskatchewan Representative for the Canadian Foodgrains Bank, invites people from across Saskatchewan to become a virtual farmer with Grow Hope Saskatchewan.
“We’ve seen support from people over the last three years. This project supports the Canadian Foodgrains Bank in its effort to end global hunger around the world by connecting urban and rural communities to share in the risk and reward of farming in Saskatchewan,” he says.
When an acre of land is sponsored for $300, it can result in proceeds up to $500 from the sale of that crop, which in turn is matched by the Government of Canada 4:1, creating a total value of $2,500 per acre donated to the Canadian Foodgrains Bank.
“We have an opportunity to make a real positive impact around the world. For those who are passionate about sustainability, global food security – this is the project for you. Consider rallying around local farmers who are donating land to grow hope on a global scale,” Block says.
For farmers Chaun and Sara Holfeld near Main Centre, Saskatchewan, there was no question about whether they would contribute the field work and fuel to support their friends, Dan and Carol Siebert in growing a crop for Grow Hope Saskatchewan.
“We both want to be a part of something that’s bigger than us. It’s not even a thought as to whether we would participate or not – it’s a few hours here and a few hours there.” Chaun says.
“We are grateful for the lives we live, and we are grateful for the opportunity to give back,” says Sara.
How it works: Generous farmers in Saskatchewan have donated land and agreed to grow a crop for Grow Hope Saskatchewan. It costs $300 per acre to provide seed, fertilizer, fuel and other inputs. You are invited to sponsor a partial acre, full acre or multiple acres to help cover these costs. After harvest, the farmers will sell the crop and donate the proceeds to Canadian Foodgrains Bank.
During the growing season, sponsors will receive field updates along with resources to help you learn more about farming and hunger in the developing world.
For more information, please contact Myron Rogal, coordinator of Justice and Peace in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon at mrogal@rcdos.ca or see the Grow Hope Saskatchewan website: growhopesk.ca or follow Grow Hope Saskatchewan on Facebook.
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