We Are Alone TogetherWe are living through a time that will indefinitely shape the way we behave as individuals, communities, and as a society. It is a time that has upended the world we knew, creating a common experience of isolation and uncertainty. Importantly, the impacts of COVID-19 have deepened socioeconomic and racial disparities. Triggered by uncertainty some spin out in fear, withdraw into despair, or lash out in anger or denial, driving us to rely on a false hope in rugged individualism and self preservation. These are common reactions when faced with the loss of control. But we can choose to recreate a society that cares for its most vulnerable, and come out of this experience with a new definition of who “we” are, who “we” care for, and who is the “we” that benefits from Montana’s values-based community food system.

Our community is only as strong as our most vulnerable person. We must reconnect with what it means to care for our community to cope with COVID-19 and to practice working together in times of stress to prepare for the disruptions that will continue to accompany climate change. We can start with collective food security, community decision making, holistic thinking, and ensuring that we are advocating for folks with compromised immune systems and those most isolated by virtue of their socio-economic and/or racial status. Right now, community care might look like donating to our a local food pantry, preparing meals, masks, or caring for a loved one. For some it might mean showing up to continue their work on the front lines of our healthcare system or planting a home garden for the first time in a few years. But for all of us, community care means practicing social distancing, protecting our faces, washing our hands, and staying in our homes. For it is these actions that all of us must take to defend the strength and health of our communities, especially the elders, folks with immune diseases, and healthcare workers who make our communities thrive.

As an AERO member, we know you understand this; your belief in the power of community created AERO 46 years ago. Simply put: AERO exists because you believe taking action on solutions that build sustainable community food systems is the best future for humans and creates the world we all want to live in. Please continue reading to learn about participating in the 21-Day Racial Equity Challenge or to support the Montana Food Providers Project. Thank you for joining AERO in social distancing. We remain #AloneTogether as we continue to work towards values-based community food systems right where you live.

Review the Mini-Grant background document for details on applying.

AERO Office Hours Change
Kate McLean, Office Manager New Helena Office Hours:
Monday and Wednesday 9:00 am – 3:00 pm

Join AERO in the 21-Day Racial Equity Challenge
March 30-April 19, 2020
On March 30th, our team at AERO joined Food Solutions New England, alongside countless other organizations and individuals, in kicking off this year’s 21-Day Racial Equity Habit-Building Challenge.

The challenge is a self-guided opportunity to examine the history and impacts of racism and inequities and how they are connected to our food system. As an organization, we are committed to understanding and undoing racism in our food system. It is precisely because of the current crisis we face with covid-19 that it is as important as ever for us to begin to understand racial disparities that exist within our food system. The Challenge will inspire us and provide resources and tools to build racial equity in our work and lives.

If you find yourself inclined to explore the challenge prompts, either daily or at your leisure, you can still register here until April 19th.