Applications are now open for the Farmers Grow Communities program, which allows farmers to nominate their favourite local charity for a $2,500 grant.

Over the last five years, the Monsanto Fund has given out nearly $1 million to more than 300 rural charities. Almost any non-profit organization based in rural Canada is eligible. Past winners have included 4-H clubs, rural daycares, libraries, volunteer fire departments, hospitals, schools, ag societies, senior centres, and other community facilities.

Two $2,500 grants — chosen by a random draw — will be awarded in each of 33 different territories across the grain-growing regions of the country. Applications, which can be found at www.canadasfarmers.ca, must be submitted by Sept. 30.