Apr 11, 2020
#EssentialFarmers Project
By Farmer Nick and Greensulate
Farms all across the country are at risk of going out of business because of the Covid-19 crisis. These farms rely on farmers markets and additional human workers to keep up with the growing demand for food during peak seasons, but their businesses have been severely slowed by quarantines and social distancing. Local community, rooftop, and school gardens have been equally affected and will be unable to provide food without workers and volunteers to cultivate the land. The “non-essential” American workforce has also felt the brunt of this pandemic. Workers from around the country have been laid off and are unable to work; struggling to make ends meet for themselves and their families. They are not only looking for financial support but also for a sense of purpose during this time of adversity.
The #EssentialFarmers project is meant to unite the two ends of our food system; connecting at-risk farms and gardens with workers and volunteers looking to get their hands dirty. That being said, there are so many ways to get involved without working directly on these farms, and we are actively exploring ways to provide temporary relief and assistance to support the longevity of these businesses and the farmers we rely on. This project will change as we grow and learn more about the farms and their struggles, and right now our number one priority is to compile a list of dedicated people (aka the Farmer Reserve) who are interested in helping and want to make a difference.
If you are interested in participating in any way, please sign up for more information at www.essentialfarmers.com or reach out to grow@essentialfarmers.com if you have questions.
WAYS TO GET INVOLVED
Of course, there are many more ways to contribute to this movement in both a working and volunteer capacity. Here are ways we can help spread the word and show our support:
Work on a Farm
We are actively compiling lists of farms and gardens that are willing to pay for workers. We will then pair these farms with individuals who have been laid off and need a temporary source of income.
Volunteer
If you want to become an essential volunteer, there are many ways to get involved locally. Giving your time at your neighborhood community gardens, local school gardens, or Greensulate’s Staten Island Ferry rooftop farm are easy ways to get your hands dirty and contribute to the movement.
Spread the Word
We all know someone who has been affected by this pandemic. You may know someone who was laid off or maybe you have friends who work on farms that could use our help. No matter what your connection is, reach out, talk to friends and family, and consider sharing this project on your channels.
Talk to Us!
#EssentialFarmers is a living and breathing project that will constantly be changing. If you have ideas, skills, connections, potential sponsors / donors, or just want to get involved in a greater capacity, please don’t hesitate to reach out. This initiative has the potential to leave a lasting impact on NYC’s (and America’s) agricultural community and we need all the help we can get.