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Day 21: How to Change the World One Grain at a Time

Organic Fair Trade Rice

I shop for groceries a lot – a number of times a week in fact. It’s not one of my husband’s favourite occupations. Being a “foodie,” I like to take my time getting inspired by food in a grocery store. I have the ability and imagination to see one ingredient and build an entire meal around it. However, I do have a grocery list and have to keep my house stocked with some of the basics. One of my items on my list today was rice.

Simple enough but yet has turned into my GIVE today.

Give 121 / Day 21

One of my favourite stores to shop in is Whole Foods. I feel as though I am giving back to the world by shopping there. Yes, I have heard the term “Whole Pay Cheque” used more than once but I have found the key to shopping at this store. Buy what’s on special when you see it. I also shop at Whole Foods because you can buy a unique range of products you won’t find anywhere else. We are a family of food intolerances and allergies including wheat free, dairy free and egg free. Whole Foods is a must destination for me at least once a week.

Rice was on special today (also on my list) so I chose to buy organic, fair trade rice – 2 bags for $7.00. (My other favourite deal is buy one get one free! Free! Who gives anything for free these days.)

The store carries products that care about our planet and us as individuals. There is a wide range of choice including organic, fair trade, free range, antibiotic free or a combination of these options. Today I bought a combination of these in one item, Alter Eco Fair Trade Jasmine Rice. Fair Trade and organic.

What is Fair Trade and how does it effect the world?

Fair Trade is putting people first.  Its main aim is poverty alleviation. Fair Trade is an internationally-recognised approach to trading which aims to ensure that producers in poor countries get a fair deal. A fair deal includes a fair price for goods and services, decent working conditions, and a commitment from buyers so that there is reasonable security for the producers. By purchasing Fair Trade products we are supporting an industry and the people behind the industry.

Organic is all about putting the earth first.

The word “organic” refers to the way farmers grow and process agricultural products, such as fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy products and meat. Organic farming practices are designed to encourage soil and water conservation and reduce pollution. Farmers who grow organic produce and meat don’t use conventional methods to fertilize, control weeds or prevent livestock disease. For example, rather than using chemical weed killers, organic farmers may conduct sophisticated crop rotations and spread mulch or manure to keep weeds at bay.

Double the impact, double the GIVE. I am so please my grocery list item turned into a GIVE because I chose to use my purchasing power to make a difference.

Sorry Uncle Ben’s you lost my business. The only thing I am helping by purchasing Uncle Ben’s rice is putting money in his pocket.

Time Commitment: 0     (I was buying it anyway)

Cost: $0   (On special actually save money!)

What people are saying about 365give

“I wanted to express my gratitude for the teaching you provided today. Your message was delivered eloquently, compassionately, and without judgment. The kids were engaged, and now have knowledge with which they can change the world. We all appreciated how you took the time to help us learn to build positive mindsets and practice happiness.”
Shelley Gardner, Grade 6 Ridgeview Elementary (West Vancouver)
“Actions really do speak louder than words, which is why I believe the 365give Challenge has resonated throughout my community. Every give we do is so important to us and leaves us happier and appreciating our lives a little bit more than before.”
Mahina Niyozova (Tajikistan)
“After watching the 365give TEDx Talk, I was inspired to join and begin a daily giving program in India. Today, along with 12 other volunteer women, we provide 100 meals to local underprivileged children in Bangalore for school every day.”
Deepika Ahuja, Mom (Bangalore, India)
“My life has greater meaning now.”
Renate Jorge, @BeKindBrazil and 365give Member, Family Program (Brazil)
“I just wanted to share that 365give really helped me. I am a better person now, thank you.”
MayLee, 365give Member, Individual Program
“This 365give Challenge has really injected excitement and extra enthusiasm in each work day as I think about what we can do. It has motivated me and the students.”
Cristina Peters, School Counselor (New York City, USA)
“I have seen a huge shift in energy throughout my classroom since doing the 365give Challenge. The Challenge has empowered my students to make a positive difference in the school’s community and beyond.”
Cella Adriana, Special Needs Educator /The Holliswood School (New York City, USA)
“The 365give Challenge helps students understand their impact on others. It opens avenues for introducing and discussing global and local issues in classrooms. It is powerful to watch students of all ages think about how they can make a change in another person’s life with one small act.”
Jessica Hall, Primary Teacher, French Immersion at École Pauline Johnson (West Vancouver, Canada)