Yesterday, Farm Aid 2009, a music concert to benefit small farmers, was held in St. Louis, featuring musicians Willie Nelson, Neil Young, John Mellencamp, Dave Matthews, Wilco and more. Small farmers crowded the lawn, wearing shirts that read "Farmers Kick Ass" and "Stop Factory Farms."
According to their website, Farm Aid is about "creating awareness about the benefits of good food from family farms." Sounds like a big benefit for us small, family farmers! But what specifically can they do for us? Well, they have a hotline - via phone at 1-800-FARM-AID or via email at farmhelp@farmaid.org - that refers farmers to "an extensive network of family farm organizations across the country."
Some people think Farm Aid helps farmers by giving them grants or loans - sorry, no, they don't. But what they can do is connect you with help, assistance and support for the many challenges that face family farmers in today's world. Check out their Farmer Resource Network, or pick up the phone or write them an email!
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