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Local federations give back to communities across Ontario
Agri-businesses, commodity groups, farm organizations, community associations and farm families have been donating their time, money, resources and support throughout this crisis.
July 10, 2020 By Larry Davis, director, Ontario Federation of Agriculture
In recent months, farmers and county federations of agriculture have banded together to show their generosity, spread positivity and offer support to their local communities across the province. Despite the extensive pressures and challenges faced by Ontario’s agriculture and food industry throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, it did not deter the agriculture community from continuing to find ways to help those in need and support our rural communities.
The nature of farming results in farmers being faced with tough situations on a regular basis. They’re forced to make difficult decisions that impact the future of their business. However, farmers have an innate ability to adapt, evolve and persevere through uncertainty, and the COVID-19 crisis was no exception. Farmers forged through spring planting season and a pandemic to continue producing healthy, safe and affordable food for all Ontarians. Their resiliency and optimism carried into new measures this spring, expanding beyond individual farm operations, with countless examples of community support and contributions across the province.
One of our biggest priorities is ensuring Canadian families always have access to safe, quality food, especially now in a time of need. As said by @erniehardeman, the food supply system here is strong! Have confidence in the supply chain. We will not let you go hungry! #ontag pic.twitter.com/So2V1GpMd1
Advertisement— Streef Produce Ltd. (@StreefProduce) March 25, 2020
Media outlets featured stories on local federations collaborating with community members, agri-food businesses and organizations across the sector to spread goodwill and support those in need. Contributions included organizing tractor parade tributes in support of our frontline workers, generous donations of funds and surplus food products for food banks, retirement homes, healthcare facilities and assisting with the production of non-medical face shields and masks.
Here’s something you won’t see everywhere. Basically the entire agricultural community in Elgin County came together to say THANK YOU to our front line health workers at @stegh_cares! Simply amazing! ❤️ (PS The parade lasted over 6 minutes!) #OntarioSpirit #sttont #stthomasproud pic.twitter.com/wbBPjC7Jc5
— Andrew Buttigieg (@AndrewButters91) April 8, 2020
On social media, videos were shared of donations being mailed to food banks, and photos highlighting pop-up events such as local food drives and county-wide non-perishable food collection days. In northern Ontario, a map that had initially been prepared for use at upcoming fairs and festivals promoting local food was distributed by mail as well as being converted into an online resource to promote direct to consumer sales. Local federation representatives also found new ways to make personal deliveries, donning masks and respecting social distancing protocols to express their gratitude towards essential healthcare workers.
A collaboration of @KentFederation and local ag businesses means 3,000 lbs. of ground pork will be distributed to Chatham-Kent charities in 2020, beginning in April. Thanks to all the volunteers and donors for making this possible #CheersToVolunteers #NVW2020 #OntAgProud pic.twitter.com/8sQUSoAzdA
— Ontario Federation of Agriculture (@OntarioFarms) April 24, 2020
Once the reality of the lockdown set in, the reaction from the agricultural community was swift. Farmers found alternative ways to pay it forward to ensure our healthcare system was supported and that Ontarians could rely on our value chain to keep food on their tables. County and regional federations focus a handful of their events and initiatives on in-person consumer outreach. As a result of the pandemic, federations were forced to adjust their efforts, allowing our members to act in support of our communities in new ways.
Not only are Canadian farmers continuing to ensure we have groceries on the shelves. They are also stepping up to donate to food banks as we all pull together to support each other during this difficult time. If you can, consider supporting your local food bank too. https://t.co/uffZNqW7FD
— CDNFoodFocus (@CDNFoodFocus) April 3, 2020
These local federations were not alone in their generosity as many developed new partnerships and alliances as a result of COVID-19. Agri-businesses, commodity groups, farm organizations, community associations and farm families have been donating their time, money, resources and support throughout this crisis. Meat processing facilities have been receiving meals from their local communities in a show of appreciation for their ability to keep fresh meat products on our grocery store shelves. Transporters have been recognized for their vital role along the value chain and retailers have been applauded for their ability to adapt and provide us with their frontline services. Agriculture at all levels has banded together to spread goodwill and positivity in a challenging time.
Just dropped off 2 $500 donations to some very happy nursing/retirement homes in Oxford County! The OCFA is doing our part to recognize and show solidarity to very deserving front line workers and residents! pic.twitter.com/MLtcOQv1iL
— Oxford County Federation of Agriculture (@county_oxford) May 19, 2020
Earlier this spring, OFA launched the #OntAgProud social media campaign to share positive stories, recognize those involved in our dynamic sector and build pride in our industry. The efforts displayed by Ontario agriculture to make our communities stronger and more connected fit into this campaign seamlessly. Each example of community engagement stems from a time of uncertainty, but spreads optimism and hope throughout our rural communities.
Cochrane Federation of Agriculture donated $1,000 to help cover the costs of developing 3,000 face masks. It's a non-profit endeavour and the face shields are being distributed to local healthcare workers at nursing homes and hospitals within the Cochrane district #OntAgProud pic.twitter.com/MvHAp6Vh9V
— Ontario Federation of Agriculture (@OntarioFarms) April 29, 2020
We have all experienced the pressures, challenges and changes as a result of the COVID-19 crisis. However, the pandemic has also brought generosity, kindness and positivity to the forefront of our industry. Thank you to the members, federations and networks that have joined together to support one another and make our rural communities stronger.
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