With lockdowns in place amid the coronavirus pandemic, restaurants closed and less cars on the road, farmers are feeling the strain.
The drastic reduction in the purchase of food, cotton and low oil prices, which have reduced demand for ethanol, hurting corn planters, are all having a severe effect on the farming industry.
Could be the end for many small family farms
A recent report predicted that this pandemic could signal the end for so many small family farms. According to the report in Time: “Some farmers have dumped their product, and others have held off on harvesting it in the first place.”
In an effort to help them supermarket chain Publix says it will buy extra fresh produce and milk from those farmers affected by the pandemic.
The Florida-based grocery store says it will then donate the produce and milk to Feeding America member food banks.
With schools closed and so many people losing their jobs the number of people struggling to put food on their tables has risen drastically. According to Feeding America, an estimated 17 million additional people will experience food insecurity as a result of the pandemic.
Publix says it will purchase more than 150,000 pounds of produce and 43,500 gallons of milk during the first week of the initiative, according to WFLA News.
“As a food retailer, we have the unique opportunity to bridge the gap between the needs of families and farmers impacted by the coronavirus pandemic,” said Publix CEO Todd Jones. “In this time of uncertainty, we are grateful to be able to help Florida’s produce farmers, southeastern dairies and families in our communities.”
We’re all in this together and now there is an even greater need to help each other, this pandemic is not just affecting our health.
Please share to inspire others to support those who are struggling.
