‘It’s what God’s people do’: Manitoba farmers come together to end global hunger

In the Book of Matthew, Jesus says ‘I was hungry and you gave me something to eat.’

Retired farmer Jake Hamm’s response to that call is a very logical one. He responds by doing what he knows best—farming.

More specifically, he provides leadership to the Whitemud growing project near Gladstone, Manitoba.

Through the project, local farmers plant, tend and harvest a crop. Once harvested, they sell the crop and donate the proceeds to Tearfund Canada’s account at Canadian Foodgrains Bank to be used in the work of ending hunger.

“Whatever we have given to us, we have a duty to share,” says Hamm. “It’s what God’s people do.”

Since the project began in 2013, the group has raised more than $250,000 for Tearfund Canada’s account at the Foodgrains Bank.

For Hamm, the project is a way to live out his faith. It’s also an opportunity to involve non-farming communities in efforts to end hunger, he says, noting local churches and community members will raise money through offerings and events to help cover the costs of things like seed and fertilizer.

“The project presents a tremendous opportunity for non-farming communities to get involved,” he says.

“We can all work together to help communities in need overseas.”

There are about 250 growing projects across Canada that raise money for Tearfund Canada and other members of Canadian Foodgrains Bank. To learn more, visit www.foodgrainsbank.ca.

– Shaylyn McMahon, Communications Officer