Nuestras Raices: Irene Aftermath

On August 26, our farm was destroyed in the aftermath of Hurricane Irene. The level of the Connecticut River rose and flooded our farmer incubator site and youth garden with water potentially contaminated with e.Coli and mercury.  We host 13 migrant and refugee farmers that cultivate specialty crops from the caribbean and many of their plants used for seed saving were destroyed as well.

Our plan of action includes testing the site and pursuing disaster relief funds.  We are also trying to fundraise $100,000 to help the farmers recoup their losses and rebuild our farm.

We are going ahead with our annual Harvest Festival scheduled for September 24th from noon-4pm.  While we are committed to providing this free event to the community we are using it as an opportunity to raise funds to rebuild the farm.  I am asking if you could possibly:

1.) make a tax deductible donation to Nuestras Raices attn: Farm Relief 329, Main St, Holyoke, MA 01040
2.) sponsor our Harvest Festival by tabling for your organization  (contact: Ramiro Davaro rdavaro@neustras-raices.org)
3.) spread the word to your list serves about our need
4.) volunteer the day of the festival

In any case your presence at our Harvest Festival would be much appreciated just as a patron to enjoy the day with us after such a trying few weeks.

For more information you can call me directly at 413-535-1789

Thanks for your support in advance.

Diego Angarita
dangarita@nuestras-raices.org
Director of Youth Programs and Policy