All funding supports our current and future local-foods economy. Besides sourcing each event from our local farmers and other suppliers, the balance of proceeds is set aside for projects that build new farm and food infrastructure. “small farms - small farmers” is building hoop-houses with donated funds. Hoop-houses can be a great catalyst, transforming our northern climate into a four-season growing environment. They allow farmers to feed us year round and provide a means to match the growing season with the typical academic school year.
“small farms” - a micro credit system has been established to loan funds and physical support to those starting new farms in our region. Farmers receive loans to purchase hoop-house supplies and volunteers from our organization do the construction. The farmers pay back the loan over time to replenish the funds for additional projects and will add their efforts and expertise in the construction of future hoops. We have constructed our first two hoops in Detroit (Brother Nature Produce) on August 1, 2009 and on Joy Rd. just north of Ann Arbor (Sunseed Farm) on August 15, 2009. Applicantions will be available March 15th for our Spring 2010 builds. Volunteers of all shapes, sizes and skill sets are needed for these “barn-raising” days. Please sign up!
“small farmers” - we partner with organizations such as The Agrarian Adventure to create new four-season gardens on school campuses. It has been shown that kids who eat more fruits and vegetables do better in school and life. Additionally, kids who grow their own food are more likely to taste new foods, leading to this more nutritious and beneficial diet. Modeled on the Tappan School program, children will have the opportunity to garden year round. The garden also is incorporated into the school curriculum, offering opportunities for science, math and other learning. We have already raised the funds for the first new garden program and hope to have it in place during the 2010-2011 school year.
By being all-volunteer with little-to-no overhead expenses, partnering with the established expertise of other area organizations, seeking matching funds and then lending to viable projects that can support future work, we can have a great impact, building tangible new assets with our small, incremental resources. All financial information is made public on the website. We are always looking for individuals and groups to partner with in these efforts. I hope you will contact us to join this initiative.