Fighting global hunger one crop at a time

By Alice McFarlane

As Saskatchewan farmers begin seeding the 2025 crop, Grow Hope Saskatchewan is launching its eighth growing season with a new partner at the table.

Canadian Lutheran World Relief (CLWR) has joined the ecumenical project expanding the collective effort to end global hunger.

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“We are thrilled to join this vital project, partnering with Canadian Foodgrains Bank, local farmers, and fellow agencies as we work together toward our shared goal of ending world hunger,” said Cody Cleave, CLWR Donor Relations Manager.

Rick Block, Saskatchewan’s representative for the Canadian Foodgrains Bank and a member of the Grow Hope Saskatchewan steering committee, said CLWR is a welcome addition.

“It’s encouraging to see more churches coming together around something so tangible and effective,” Block said.

Grow Hope Saskatchewan connects farmers who donate land with donors who cover input costs of roughly $350 per acre. Crops are grown and harvested, and proceeds are matched up to 4:1 through Canadian Foodgrains Bank, multiplying the impact for communities facing food insecurity.

In 2024, 440 acres were sponsored, raising more than $248,000. This year, the goal is 500 acres.

Support comes from both new and returning sponsors and first-time participants, including farmer Diana Dolack, who has donated 80 acres near Biggar.

Earlier this year, several Grow Hope SK participants travelled to Rwanda to witness how their efforts are making a difference. From visiting farms and food co-ops to connecting with communities growing their own food, the trip served as a reminder that food security is rooted not just in harvests, but in dignity and long-term partnership.

As the season begins, the project partners are inviting more people to get involved. This year, supporters can once again sponsor acres, knowing their contributions will help improve lives around the world.