Monsanto has announced commitments to support farmers and the rural communities that have been impacted by the worst drought this country has faced in decades. To support communities – the Monsanto Fund is doubling its America’s Farmers Grow Communities funding in counties declared a disaster area by USDA. To support the farmers financially impacted by the drought – Monsanto is offering additional prepay options and financing assistance for the purchase of their seed. Farmers in impacted areas can call 1-855-379-1212 to discuss their individual situation and explore options with a Monsanto representative. U.S. Row Crops Business Lead for Monsanto Mike Stern says nearly 90-percent of the U.S. corn crop is in regions impacted by drought. He says Monsanto understands that when farmers face crop losses – it more difficult to invest in their business for the following year. The company wants to ease the minds of farmers who have been hit hard by the drought. Monsanto also recognizes the economic impact a devastating drought can have on the communities where farmers live and work. Debbie Lyons-Blythe – America’s Farmers Farm Mom of the Year – says farmers are small business owners that fuel the economies of their local communities. When farmers make a profit – she says they invest that money back into their operation – making purchases that benefit the local community. But Lyons-Blythe says farmers aren’t able to invest as much during a severe drought – which has a cumulative impact on rural communities.
Through America’s Farmers Grow Communities – eligible farmers in select counties can enter to win a 25-hundred dollar donation for their favorite local nonprofit group. The winning farmers in the counties that have been declared disaster areas due to drought can choose where to direct an additional 25-hundred dollar donation based on community
Source: NAFB News Service