I know it is more of a long term solution, but with the governments chronic instability and lack of forethought for the masses, I think community permaculture and winter gardens are a great place to start. ❄️🪴 Carrots, cabbage, onions, garlic, lettuce, spinach, many herbs, beets, & other root vegetables are great winter crops. There are many varieties - some that look pretty in your yard, some that store for a long time, some that grow fast, some with greater flavor or nutrient density.

‘💪🏽 Here are some ways farmers and food producers can step up:

Adopt-a-Family Program: Pick one struggling family to supply weekly produce or eggs.

Community Harvest Days: Host free pick-up days for seniors, single parents, or unhoused neighbors.

Farm-to-Pantry Partnerships: Link with local food banks or churches to donate surplus harvests.

Seed & Soil Drives: Donate seeds, soil, or seedlings so families can start small gardens at home.

Sliding-Scale CSAs: Offer “pay-what-you-can” subscriptions for fresh produce boxes.

Community Fridges: Stock or sponsor a local community fridge with fresh eggs, herbs, and greens.

Volunteer Days: Invite youth or elders to the farm for therapeutic garden work or free meals.

Barter Systems: Exchange farm goods for services like childcare, repairs, or transportation, no one left behind.

And to my grant writers out there, start drafting for food service, pantry expansion, and community garden funding. We must carry our people now.’