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Homegrown by Heroes program recognizes Hoosier vets

An Indiana farmer says the Indiana Grown Homegrown by Heroes initiative is a great way to not only buy local, but support Hoosier veterans.

Sara Creech farms in central Indiana and says farming helps veterans reintegrate back into civilian life.  “I specifically think that farming is really healing for veterans when they come home,” she says.  “I think it is a great way to reconnect with themselves, with nature, and with the community.”

Creech was the first Indiana farmer to receive the Homegrown by Heroes certification.  She say by partnering with Indiana Grown, veteran farmers have an additional tool to market their products.  “This is a really simple way that the community can say ‘I want to support these businesses and these veterans that are returning home’ and make sure they succeed,” she says.

Homegrown by Heroes was founded by the Kentucky Department of Agriculture.  In 2013 the Farmer Veteran Coalition expanded the program nationally.  Today it includes more than 250 members in 43 states.

To be eligible for Indiana Grown Homegrown by Hoosiers, farmers must be on active duty or an honorably discharged veteran and own at least 50 percent of an Indiana based business.

AUDIO: Sarah Creech