Farm Aid announces its donations for 2014

Dec 18, 2014

More than half a million dollars given to farms and agricultural organizations

By Diego Flammini, Farms.com

Farm Aid, the non-profit organization focusing on strengthening farmers and agriculture in the United States since 1985, revealed its total donation amount for this year.

83 farm, rural and urban agriculture organizations in 36 states and the District of Columbia will receive a share of the $585,700 invested by Farm Aid in 2014.

The money is invested in programs which include helping farm families stay on their land legally using business planning and financial advice, advocate for fair farm policies, recruit new farmers and supporting farmer-to-farmer programs.

"Thanks to the generosity of supporters from across the country, today Farm Aid sends money to hardworking advocates and organizers who share Farm Aid's mission to strengthen family farmers," said Farm Aid President Willie Nelson, who along with Neil Young and John Mellencamp organized the first Farm Aid concert 29 years ago. "Farm Aid grants support their work and invest in projects that build a thriving future for family farm agriculture and good food for all, in both rural and urban communities."

Musician Dave Matthews joined Farm Aid’s board of directors in 2001.

Organizations within the farm community are grateful initiatives like Farm Aid exist to give them a strong support system.

"Farm Aid funding is critical to our ability to put a trusted advisor at the table when farm families need help," said Scott Marlow, executive director of the Rural Advancement Foundation International-USA. "But it's crucial that we don't just help farmers in crisis, but that we help all farm families succeed. Farm Aid is an important partner in this work to help farmers thrive by growing good food that is healthy for the farmer, their families, their communities and the planet."

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