Patchwork Family Farms C/O Missouri Rural Crisis Center 1108 Rangeline St., Columbia, MO 65201 (573) 449-1336 Fax: (573) 442-5716 Lindsay Howeton- morural@mail.coin.missouri.edu

Three independent farm families came together in 1992 to create Patchwork Family Farms, the economic development project of the Missouri Rural Crisis Center (MRCC). These families raised hogs the traditional way, in the sunshine and fresh air without the continuous use of antibiotics and with no growth hormones or synthetic growth promoters. It was evident to them, even in 1992, that concentration within the livestock industry was threatening their livelihood. Having been farmers all their lives, they looked for a way to secure their future by creating a project where they would receive fair prices and be able to market their premium quality pork products directly to consumers. Today, their vision is a successful reality.

Patchwork now includes 15 independent family hog farmers located all around Missouri. Producers receive no less than 43 cents per pound or 15 percent above market price. This is significant because the average price paid to producers last year was 28 cents. Hog prices have hit such volatile lows as 8 cents per pound during the end of the 1998. This is also significant because it demonstrates that producers

can be paid a guaranteed price for their products that meets or exceeds cost of production while keeping prices competitive to consumers.

Patchwork currently sells pork products to over 30 restaurants along with a retail outlet and several grocery stores in central Missouri. This success would not have been possible without the support of Missouri Rural Crisis Center (MRCC) members.

MRCC is a progressive, statewide, membership organization that works to empower farmers and other rural people. MRCC's mission is to preserve family farms, promote stewardship of the land and environmental integrity and strive for economic and social justice by building unity and mutual understanding among diverse groups, both rural and urban.

From our families to yours-premium quality products that sustain the traditions of rural communities. We are 15 independent family hog farmers who want to bring our product to you, the consumer.

Our growing standard

• Growth hormones or synthetic growth promoters are prohibited.
• No continuous feeding of antibiotics.
• Animals must receive adequate amounts of sunshine, fresh air and quality feed necessary to maintain good health.
• Animals are raised with social responsibility, using environmental stewardship and sustainable growing practices.
• Producers receive a fair price for their products.
  

A Project of The Rural Coalition
1012 14th Street NW Suite 1100
Washington, DC 20005
Telephone (202) 628-7160; Fax (202) 628-7165
Toll Free 1-866-RURAL-80