Providing direct and beneficial support ...

The rain began in southeastern Minnesota on the night of August 18. Up to 17 inches fell the first day, and heavy rains continued for more than a week as the flooded area grew. The region is home to many sustainable farmers, their employees and related businesses. Farmers have lost their crops, their houses, their communities, their friends.

Slow Food Minnesota is joining with other non-profit organizations and chefs to raise money for farmers and their communities.

:: One Farmer’s Story - Eric Hoiland of Hoiland Mill Farm in Rushford ::

“If you haven’t heard, My mother and I have lost almost all of our posessions in our home due to the flooding on Aug 19. The flood waters were five to six feet deep on the first floor of our home. The house is essentially destroyed but we gutted out all flooring and walls and are planning to rebuild in the structure that is left. We are currently living with my sister but are trying to secure a FEMA trailer until the rebuilding is complete (That’s something I never thought I would say!).

“All the buildings owned by my mother (the buildings I use to house my livestock and business) were also damaged by the flood. This includes the Mill that is the namesake of my turkey products. All the turkeys being raised this summer for this Thanksgiving and for processing were lost. Also, I lost a refrigeration truck that stored a majority of product I had available. Finally, I lost 24 of 29 cattle. These are the major losses incurred, I haven’t began to assess the total toll of the flooding. I almost forgot the pumpkins, my entire patch (2 acres) is gone/lost.

“The town of Rushford is also a mess. A majority of homes and almost all of the businesses sustained damage. It remains to be seen what most homeowners or business will do.

“Finally, I want to thank family, friends, and volunteers who have helped us in this disaster. Your generosity and kindness can never be repaid.”

:: Financial Contributions Are Needed ::

The Red Cross is providing immediate aid to everyone, while Sow the Seeds is targeting aid to sustainable farmers. Contributions can be made to the Red Cross Winona chapter, 1660 Kramer Dr.; Winona, MN 55987; 507-452-4258; Maggie Modjeski, director, or online to the Sow the Seeds Fund, www.sowtheseedsfund.org >>.

:: To Volunteer in the Cleanup ::

The United Way is organizing cleanup volunteers. People with construction skills are especially needed. See United Way of Olmstead County, www.uwolmsted.org >>.

:: Online Auction Was a Success ::

Slow Food Minnesota raised more than $7,000 in the online auction that took place from September 5-12. All proceeds will go to the Winona Red Cross and the Sow the Seeds Fund.

:: One Big Night Out ::

Many slow restaurants in the Twin Cities dedicated a percentage of their profits on Saturday, September 8 to flood-relief efforts. The event was a success, with many of the restaurants donating thousands of dollars. Participants were the Birchwood Café, Brasa Rotisserie, Café Brenda, Chester Creek Café (Duluth), Common Roots Café, Corner Table, The Craftsman Restaurant and Bar, Grand Cafe, Heartland Contemporary Midwestern Restaurant, Jay’s Café, Lucia’s Restaurant, Muffuletta in the Park, Nicollet Island Inn, Restaurant Alma, Signature Café, and Spoonriver.