Ryan Mercer works on Viterra's Canadian Foodgrains Bank project in Lethbridge

In 2024, Viterra Canada is partnering with Canadian Foodgrains Bank for the 9th consecutive year to support their mission to end hunger.

Viterra has provided 267 acres of land around our grain facilities in Balgonie, Grenfell, and Raymore, SK and Lethbridge and Trochu, AB. Farmers in the area volunteer their time, expertise and resources to grow and harvest crops. Proceeds from the sale of the crops will be donated to the Foodgrains Bank in support of their work to fight food insecurity around the world.

Ryan Mercer, of Mercer Seeds, farms 95 acres of land at Viterra’s Foodgrains Bank project in Lethbridge, AB. Learn more about Ryan and his experience with the Foodgrains Bank:

Tell us a bit about yourself. 
I am a fourth generation farmer. I was born on a farm and took over with my wife in 2004. We raised our three children on the farm and are anxiously awaiting our first grandchild. 
We have a pedigreed seed operation, growing new varieties of seed including cereals, pulses, and oilseeds. In our business we grow, dry, clean and sell seed.

What do you enjoy most about farming?
I enjoy the family atmosphere and close relationships. Farming is not just a job, but a way of life. I feel blessed to be able to work with my wife, Annette and daughter Ananda and her husband Micaiah, son James and youngest daughter Raylene.

How did you get involved with the Foodgrains Bank and what has your experience been so far?
My mentor, Hans Visser, was involved with Canadian Foodgrains Bank. He introduced me to the organization and I’ve been working with them for about 10 years now. Working with Foodgrains Bank is a very positive experience, as you are able to make a life changing impact by supplying food to families in need around the world. 

What does it mean to you that Viterra supports the Foodgrains Bank?
It is huge. It is wonderful to see a large organization helping in this way, from a corporate level to a community level. Viterra’s involvement helps the organization make an even larger impact on fighting food insecurity.

What would you say to others to get them interested in supporting the Foodgrains Bank?
I’d tell them to find someone who is already involved – there are lots of mentors and neighbours working with the organization that you can connect with. You can get involved by going to events, or taking part in harvest days. There are lots of opportunities you can find on their website too. You don’t have to be a farmer to take part. Organizations can get involved by donating inputs such as seed, fertilizer, and crop protection. Members of the community can get involved by providing meals for harvest day or making donations.