“That all may share in the bounties of this earth.” We are all connected.
I am excited to be part of broadening our outreach horizons at Castlegar United this fall by learning about the Canadian Foodgrains Bank. The CFB was formed by thoughtful and generous Canadian farmers in 1983. More than grain and other foodstuff delivered to hungry people, the CFB initiates and supports projects that provide food security for their future. The United Church of Canada has been a member of the Canadian Foodgrains Bank since 1984.
Canadian Foodgrains Bank is rooted in the belief that humankind is created in the image of God and that it is God’s desire that no person should go hungry. The availability of food and access to that food is fundamental to life itself. Food is required to sustain life, to provide the strength for work, and to share in the fellowship of one’s family and community.
On Nov.4, at Castlegar United we will be having a special lunch comprising an unusual menu of foods that the Canadian Foodgrains Bank often deals with either in sending, or helping to grow as efficiently as possible. Although Ontario farmers send tons of soybeans to Africa every year, soybeans will not be on the menu! However yams and sweet potatoes and other beans will be offered because these are very nutrient rich foods which are grown in many different countries at CFB projects. The proceeds from the lunch will go to the CFB.
How does the Canadian Foodgrains Bank help to alleviate hunger & poverty? By collecting grain and cash donations for projects submitted by our 15 member agencies and their partners around the world, the CFB not only distributes the food, grain and seeds, it provides the expert advice for agricultural projects and engages in public policy and education related to hunger and food security. Looking to a sustainable future, Food Security projects often assist communities to develop more efficient methods to ensure adequate water supply for irrigation and prevention of soil erosion. For example, since
many areas in need are affected by drought, CFB will assist in the building of sand dams or sand ponds for holding water. Some projects have resulted in more than a tenfold increase in crop yield.
The UCC as a member of the CFB receives requests for food or expertise from its overseas partners, many of which are in Africa. The CFB ensures food and support provided will improve the lives of the people receiving the assistance, in both short and long term. Once planning is complete, including details to ensure safe and reliable delivery, Canadian Foodgrains Bank arranges the purchase and shipping of the food and/ or equipment needed.
Canadian Foodgrains Bank is a partnership of Canadian churches and church-based agencies making a difference to help end global hunger.
We are all connected and interwoven with each other on this planet, through the food we eat and the air we breathe.
Why not share our bounty?