Farmers Feed Cities! kicked off its Winter campaign at the Royal Agricultural Fair in Toronto. Led by the Ontario Grain & Oilseed Safety
Net Committee, the campaign seeks to inform consumers about the crisis
facing farm families and to build a stronger connection with urban families across the province.

Highlights include a ramped-up web presence with interactive e-tools and community events throughout the holiday season. A photo contest, sign blitz and print media campaign are in the works for the New Year.

“This is a critical time for farm families – we’re harvesting undervalued crops for another year, and looking at the likelihood of inadequate
support for the next planting season,” says Leo Guilbeault, Chairman of the Ontario Grain & Oilseed Safety Net Committee.

As demonstrated through a recent post-card campaign and at public events, farmers aren’t alone in their concern.

“Our non-farming neighbours really do care,” explains Bernadine Wolfe, campaign volunteer from the Ontario Coloured Bean Growers’ Association. “They appreciate the problem is just too big for farmers to fix on their own. We’re not asking for handouts, we’re just asking for help.”

But farmers aren’t just talking about problems. They’re talking about a solution. More than a year ago, facing the lowest prices in a generation, grain and oilseed farmers developed the Risk Management Program. “It’s a responsible program and a partnership among everyone who benefits – farmers, governments and the public.

Wolfe, and many farmers like her, will continue to support the Farmers Feed Cities! campaign as a means to find common ground with families across the province.

Thank you to the Prinzen family for stopping by the Farmer Feed Cities! exhibit at the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair and participating in the Picture Yourself Getting Involved activity.

The Prinzen Family.
Front row (kneeling): Esther, David;
Back row: Luke, Herman, Marianne, Hilary, Holly.

They’ll have some help. Pioneer Hi-Bred Limited has pledged $25,000 towards campaign efforts through this winter and spring. “Our business relies on a healthy agriculture sector,” explained Jim Gumpert, President. “We’re in this together.” Gumpert congratulates campaign leaders for their efforts to date. “It can be challenging to run an effective campaign in a crisis – but these folks continue to be strategic and professional with the Farmers Feed Cities! campaign.”

Public support is essential to securing a long-term solution to the grain & oilseed crisis, but it’s a big job. Gumpert challenges other industry
players to get involved. “Our customers – farmers in Ontario – have committed significant time and resources to this campaign,” he explained. “Collectively, industry has the means to match that commitment.”

For more information, or to get involved in the Farmers Feed Cities! campaign, please visit the web site at www.farmersfeedcities.com or call the office at (519)767-4132.