CROP sale

There are many ways to help those in need here at home and around the world, and for 40 years members of Church Women United in Cape Girardeau have raised funds with its annual CROP (Communities Responding to Overcome Poverty) sales. This year's event attracted nearly 200 women and raised money for FISH, Jackson Food Pantry, Love INC., Teen Challenge, Family Resource Center, Church World Service Heifer Project and a $500 scholarship to the Career and Technology Center.

When the CROP sales started in 1970, most every family had a vegetable garden. Participants would plant extra rows, and produce would be sold at the CROP sales. Nowadays, fewer gardens are being planted, but baked goods and potted plants as well as fresh vegetables help raise money.

Over the years, proceeds from the CROP sales have been used to purchase livestock, tools, seeds, veterinary supplies, wells, windmills and reforestation in needy countries. The annual scholarships are given to women try to better themselves, particularly through the LPN program.

The group's enduring efforts -- some of the participants have been involved all 40 years -- are to be commended. Hats off to the Church Women United for making this effort to help others.