KITCHENER, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - March 1, 2013) - The theme for the second GROWMARK Ontario Essay Contest is: "Fighting Domestic and Global Hunger". The contest is open to all high school students who are members of 4-H in Ontario. Students who write essays will learn how agricultural co-operatives help combat domestic and world hunger.
Essays should be approximately 500 words, typed and double-spaced. The postmarked entry deadline for Ontario 4-H members is May 15. The Ontario provincial winner earns a $500 award and their 4-H Association receives a $300 award. Four runners-up each win $125.
The essay contest has been in place in the US for 20 years, sponsored by the GROWMARK System and FS member co-operatives, in conjunction with US state FFA leaders, to help young people develop their writing skills, learn about current issues affecting agriculture, and understand the unique role of co-operatives. This year, students will focus on four questions: What agricultural technologies and practices will increase food production? How do local agricultural co-operatives help farmers combat domestic and world hunger? What kind of partnerships can help fight hunger worldwide? What can you personally do to impact world hunger?
Additional program details can be viewed online at  (click on Our Commitments/Youth & Young Farmers/Essay Contest/4H Ontario) or at .
GROWMARK is a regional cooperative providing agriculture-related products and services, as well as grain marketing, in 45 states and Ontario, Canada. GROWMARK owns the FS trademark, which is used by affiliated member co-operatives. The FS brand represents knowledgeable, experienced professionals acting with integrity and dedication to serve more than 250,000 customers. More information is available at .