January 1st, 2014
The new year is always a time for new resolutions and new beginnings. One of the most common resolutions is to shed weight after the holiday season. We all enjoy feasting on homemade sweets and dishes, but when January rolls around it's time to put away the cookie sheets and turn a new page. Resolutions for me have always been challenging, whether it is trying to live a healthier lifestyle for myself or make a difference for others. Finding something you can stick with can be tricky, but this year I have found a resolution that everyone should get involved with.
Catalyst For Change
This year's resolution is to use locally grown products as well as donate to family farmers across the world whenever possible. What better way to get motivated then to stand behind a greater cause. This year the United Nations has declared 2014 the International Year of Family Farming (IYFF). Such a declaration can be a catalyst for change, not only in your own homes but around the world.
But why is this important? The IYFF aims to raise the profile of family farming by focusing world attention on its significant role in eradicating hunger and poverty. Family farmers provide food security, nutrition, and achieve sustainable development in rural areas.
This resolution not only holds a place near and dear to my heart, but is also a way to teach my kids and family how to give back to the world in a healthy and sustainable way.
Farmers Around The World
Farmers are overlooked as an essential part of the food supply chain. Everyone needs food to survive, so why is it that family farmers everywhere do not receive enough credit?
With over 500 million family farms around the world this industry is a global neccesity. Family farming represents an opportunity to boost local economies all over the world.
It is the predominant form of agriculture in developed and developing countries. Seventy percent of the food insecure population lives in rural areas of Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Near East and have poor access to natural resources and technologies.
Therefore, international cooperation is key to fostering change and creating sustainable solutions to the world's food security issues.
Get Internationally Involved
From the comfort of your own kitchen you can start to make a difference. There are numerous organizations out there that serve as a middle man between donors and farmers in need of support. You can easily become a part of that relationship so make it your resolution to give back in at least one way in honor of the International Year of Family Farming.
If you're looking to jumpstart your resolution try searching for a non-profit organization that is globally connected such as Heifer International.
