How to Thank a farmer

Last week, I published a piece called “Trump won Iowa–Now what?” where I tell the story of farming right now and another old story about a Chinese farmer.

(Spoiler alert: it’s not a political hit piece–it’s not even actually a political piece. It’s about the hard work that our farmers do day in and day out despite whatever is playing out on the national political scene.)

I was surprised to see how quickly responses came in. 

First this one:

Paraphrased, From Laura H.

“Do you have thoughts about how to personally thank farmers for their hard work. But I wonder how I can thank them. I’m thinking the kids and I might make some cards.”

The answer is YES. Yes, I do!

I’ll get to that in a moment….

But first, look at the message I got just after that directly from a farmer I know and respect deeply:

“Brilliant newsletter.  I truly appreciate your commitment to the community.  You didn’t bash either political party.  

When Trump was in the White House I got up at 4 am to start my day and ended my day at 9 pm unless livestock were giving birth.  

I do the exact same thing while President Biden is in office.  

I focus on my local community and how to make those policies better.”

So there you have it.

And, just like Laura, don't you think these farmers deserve a little "thank you?"

On so many levels, it’s not always about the political scene. It's about the day in, day out work their doing.

But I still haven’t answered Laura H’s question…

And here is the answer.

I recently got an email from my friend and colleague Dana DiPrima. (Her name rhymes with banana) 😉

And her email was actually all about her campaign to thank farmers for their hard work.

Whaddaya know?

Serendipitous timing?

Her campaign is called “love for farmers.”

It’s really so simple. Enter a farmer’s name, email address, and they get 4 things cascading to them:

1. An immediate emailed thank you note for their hard work.

2. An email asking for their physical address so they can receive a care package in the ACTUAL MAIL. 

3. A follow up postcard they will get in a few weeks.

4. Be entered for drawing in a $250 mini grant for them to use on whatever project most needs their attention.

Repeat for every farmer on YOUR list.

With all of this comes a vote of confidence. You’re saying to them that you believe the work they are doing is important. 

Dana and I just recorded a podcast where we discuss this in a bit more detail and talk about the other projects and ventures she’s up to. And the story behind the For Farmers Movement. (There are definitely cute little goats involved.)

The new episode will air on Monday. So to be one of the first to hear more about the “Thank a farmer campaign,” and the other shenanigans we're up to, subscribe here to be notified when that podcast is live.

And on we go, fixing our food system one bite at a time.