Image for July Positive Change: Hmong American Farmers Association

Create Positive Change

Each time you shop at the co-op, you have a chance to directly support local nonprofits by donating your 10-cent reusable bag credits and rounding up your purchases to the nearest dollar. It may only be a few cents or spare change, but your generosity makes a huge impact — to the tune of over $10,000 each month for our Positive Change recipients!

Meet Hmong American Farmers Association

The short & sweet:  

The Hmong American Farmers Association (HAFA) is a membership-based organization that advances the economic prosperity of Hmong farming families in Minnesota through capacity building, strategic partnerships, cooperative endeavors, community engagement, and advocacy. 

HAFA works in five main areas: 

  1. Incubator Farm & Land Access: HAFA prioritizes providing affordable, long-term farmland by collaborating with public and private entities to lease or purchase large tracts, including a 155-acre farm in Vermillion Township where member families can lease plots, develop skills, and sell produce through HAFA’s Food Hub. 
  2. Alternative Markets Program (AMP): To broaden market access beyond farmers’ markets, HAFA’s Alternative Markets Program connects farmers with schools, restaurants, grocery stores, and a CSA program, bringing produce to over 250,000 people through a central food hub. 
  3. Business Development: HAFA supports farmers’ economic resilience by helping them access microloans, matched savings programs, and other financial resources, as well as develop value-added products to diversify their income. 
  4. Farmer Training Programs: HAFA trains farmers in areas like soil health, food safety, high tunnels, and farm equipment, enhancing their skills for more sustainable and productive farming operations. 
  5. Research: HAFA provides its members with the latest farming research and techniques to support effective, sustainable practices and keep up with advancements in crop diversity and productivity.

What the donations will be used for:  

Proceeds from Positive Change donation will support community-based organizations and the Farm to Family implemented program, ensuring equitable access to fresh, locally grown, and culturally appropriate produce grown by Hmong farmers. 

 

For more information please visit: www.hmongfarmers.com/