Harvesting the Best in Others

It's the time of year when plump pumpkins appear on doorsteps and the sweet smell of apple cider dances through the air. The fall harvest is nature's bounty; many yummy gifts will delight tongues and tummies over the next few weeks.

Biranesh Getu's father leads a farm field school in Ethiopia that teaches modern farming and business development methods. CRS and partners like Keurig Green Mountain Inc. support sustainable agriculture and communities. Photo by Ric Francis for CRS

Fresh fruits and vegetables provide nourishment and sustenance to people globally. Through your generosity, Catholic Relief Services teaches people around the world better ways to grow them. We help people feed themselves.

Food sustainability is essential to self-reliance. That's why we get down in the dirt with farmers—teaching them how to improve soil quality, choose good seed and irrigate land in the best ways for their region.

We're able to teach farmers well because we know them well. We've been working with poor and vulnerable people overseas for more than 75 years. Our work—in 93 countries—recognizes that needs and solutions differ according to location.

One constant, though, is informed guidance. Farmers learn how to make the most of their bananas, potatoes or carrots. We connect farmers with markets and show them the value of growing crops that are in demand. They learn how to diversify what they grow. They learn the latest technology and methods that will work best in their climate. They learn about growing high-nutrient foods that will help their families make healthy food choices.

CRS' approach to agriculture encourages farmers and communities to work together so everyone can prosper. We help small-scale farmers incorporate so they can increase their bargaining power and profits. By working in clusters, farmers can secure better prices and make more money for their families.

Bananas, potatoes and carrots are food, but they are also potentially lifesaving teaching tools. With your help, CRS invests in rural families and shows them how to feed themselves. With a simple fruit or vegetables, CRS is harvesting the best in others—and everyone reaps the benefits.