Talking strategy for ending farmers' hunger
Posted: Jun 11, 2010
Much has been written and discussed when it comes to the seed-to-cup trip that coffee beans make. One aspect of the journey that sometimes goes unnoticed is the struggle of the farmer: Coffee is harvested but once a year, and it’s not always easy for coffee producers to make that annual payday last. When money is scarce, necessities like food can sometimes be out of reach.
Specialty coffee companies and organizations have long been aware of the problem, and in recent years have been making strides in the food-security arena. One of the biggest is occurring this week: An event titled Food Security Solutions—put together by importing company Sustainable Harvest and roaster Green Mountain Coffee—is taking place at the farm Selva Negra in Matagalpa, Nicaragua. The forum features workshops on beekeeping, mushrooms, soil fertility and family gardens—all of which can help farmers raise incomes and/or better their diets.
Michael Sheridan of Catholic Relief Services is among the participants of the forum, and he’s been keeping a detailed account at CRS’ Coffeelands Blog. The photo-heavy recap (with detailed captions) of the workshops is an information-packed offering for those who can’t be there in person.
—Chris Ryan
