Minnesota Soybean
Growers Association
MSGA Membership Corner
Soybean Farmers Can Plant the Seed to Help Grow Their Communities
Rural communities are the heart of America. Whether growing soybeans to create biodiesel, corn to feed livestock, or cotton to clothe us, farmers in these rural communities provide the necessities of our lives. Now, farmers in eligible areas have the opportunity to plant the seed that helps grow their communities. Through America’s Farmers Grow Communities℠, sponsored by the Monsanto Fund, farmers can win $2,500 for their favorite community nonprofit organization, such as FFA, 4-H, schools, fire departments and other civic groups.
Since Grow Communities began, nearly 60,000 farmers across 1,204 counties in 38 states signed up to help grow their community with more than $4.2 million in donations from the Monsanto Fund. The second annual Grow Communities program will include 1,245 counties across 39 states, resulting in an additional $102,500 going back to rural communities.
Farmers, age 21 and over, who are actively engaged in farming a minimum 250 acres of soybeans, corn or cotton, 40 acres of open field vegetables, or at least 10 acres of tomatoes, peppers and/or cucumbers grown in protected culture are eligible. Farmers can enter now through Nov. 30, 2011. The program is open to all qualifying farmers, and no purchase is necessary in order to enter or win. Apply and the Monsanto Fund will donate $1 to your local United Way to help food banks and other charitable organizations dealing with hunger in your community.
Apply online at www.growcommunities.comor call 1 (877) 267-3332 to apply by phone. One winner will be drawn from each of the participating counties, and Monsanto Fund will announce winning farmers and recipient organizations in January 2012.
Find out the eligible counties, learn about past winners and read the official rules at www.growcommunities.com.
