Local farmers respond to world hunger

One approach to confronting this problem was presented by guest Joan Fumetti, representing Foods Resource Bank (FRB).

Rev. Fumetti explained that FRB was formed in 1999 and the model has great appeal to people in rural areas who wish to reach out to the hungry in a very tangible way. Foods Resource Bank is a Christian, non-denominational, non-governmental humanitarian agency. It is committed to helping people in developing countries feed themselves through sustainable, small-scale agricultural production.

FRB provides grants through well-established Christian agencies around the world such as Church World Service, Catholic Relief Services, or Lutheran World Relief. Funds are raised by locally organized “growing projects” in rural areas of the United States. In northeast Iowa, Fredericksburg and Strawberry Point have participated in very successful “growing projects.” Profits are distributed carefully by FRB to a variety of agricultural projects across the world through the Implementing Members who already know the region well.

When a parcel of land is secured for the “growing project,” local farmers, suppliers, and businesses become involved in planting, caring for, and harvesting the crop. Local people also help raise the money to cover the costs involved. At the end of the season, profits from the project can be designated for a particular world partner or for the FRB general fund to use where there are unmet needs.

FRB emphasizes that all monies go directly to projects that help hungry people feed themselves, promoting “food security” rather than emergency relief. Funds go to supply seeds, tools, irrigation, animals, and instruction to local villagers who work to create community gardens, wells, herds, etc. that will sustain them long term.

Those attending the meeting found this approach very appealing and doable as a community effort. The ecumenical spirit among this area’s churches, plus its productive land, provide a natural fit for a project as outlined by Rev. Fumetti. A local farmer in attendance volunteered to make available 24 acres in a good location of Allamakee County. Others offered to help with the harvest, and suppliers pledged to help as well.

Five area churches were represented at the meeting and others are welcomed. Farmers, suppliers, banks and businesses are encouraged to be part of this exciting venture, also.

Another meeting will be held March 10 at 10:30 a.m. at Zion United Church of Christ to further develop and organize the local effort to start a “growing project” this spring. Anyone interested is encouraged to attend this meeting and share in providing this Christian response to World Hunger.

For information, contact John Prestemon (568-6861) or Carol Eick (568-2374).