As I write this on the eve of Giving Tuesday, I am hoping this year, more than ever, people will consider giving the gift of a donation to so many who are in need right now. Aside from restaurants being close to my heart, the small farms that supply them with food are at the beginning of the chain. We need to support them and help them continue growing and providing us with healthy food.
Our farmers are an essential business. Without them, we may be relying on foods that are modified or grown in ways we would not consider good for the environment or our health. In our current state, what could be more important than nurturing our bodies with healthy food. As we hunker down for the holidays to enjoy some good meals with family, we must be grateful and thankful for our farmers that dedicate their lives to providing us with produce, herbs, and beautiful flowers to grace our tables.
While it seems a common part of life to have those things readily available, we now have to step back and realize without our support many of our small farms may disappear. I strongly urge everyone to shop local, go to your farmers markets and if you can make a donation tomorrow to Farm Aid, please do. Farm Aid has long supported small farms, and I have been a supporter for a few years now. While many organizations are in need, I would like to highlight Farm Aid as one that means a great deal to me.
I recently was looking on their website and saw a number to call if you are a farmer in need. As if that wasn’t lovely enough, underneath it said if you are not a farmer and just need a person to talk to please call. I am so touched by this organization and what they do. We as a nation, need to get back to our roots. If this time has taught us anything it is to feed our minds, bodies and souls well. To nurture family and friends and even strangers by providing a good meal. Bless our farmers and blessings to you all on this giving season.
To support our farmers, please go to farmaid.org and donate. Any amount is appreciative.