Farmers Against Hunger with Newell Thompson

The Bridgeton Beacon welcomes Newell Thompson for a conversation that explores the New Jersey #Agricultural Society and its initiatives, particularly the Farmers Against Hunger program. Thompson discusses the history, mission, and impact of the organization, emphasizing the importance of education, community engagement, and local food systems. The discussion also highlights the role of migrant workers, the cultural significance of agriculture, and the need for volunteer support to address food insecurity in New Jersey. takeaways The New Jersey Agricultural Society was founded in 1781. Farmers Against Hunger collects and distributes food to those in need. Education is crucial for understanding the value of agriculture. Consumer behavior can be influenced to support local food systems. Seasonal eating enhances nutritional value and supports local farmers. Volunteering is essential for food collection efforts. Migrant workers play a vital role in agriculture. Respectful treatment of workers is key to successful farming. Agriculture contributes significantly to New Jersey's culture. Preserving agricultural land is important for future generations. Sound Bites "Farmers Against Hunger began 30 years ago." "We collect about one and a half million pounds of food." "Education is about the value of agriculture." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to New Jersey Agricultural Society 03:00 Farmers Against Hunger: Mission and Impact 05:53 Education and Leadership in Agriculture 09:11 Understanding New Jersey's Agricultural Landscape 11:58 Consumer Behavior and Local Food Systems 15:12 The Importance of Seasonal Eating 18:03 Volunteer Opportunities and Community Engagement 20:49 Fundraising and Support for Farmers Against Hunger 24:07 Building Relationships with Farmers 27:00 The Role of Migrant Workers in Agriculture 30:07 Cultural Significance of Agriculture 32:49 Future of Agriculture in New Jersey