2024 brought with it challenges and stress that have impacted us individually, as families, and as teams operating our farm businesses. Winter has come crashing in on most parts of New York, reminding us that the end of the season is here, and that our farm families and employees are ready for a much-needed rest.
Laura Ingalls Wilder told us “Home is the nicest word there is.” It’s where the healing happens. It’s where we find respite from exhaustion, and encouragement from family and friends. With the holiday season upon us, home finds special meaning. Faith and festivities are expressed through decoration, meals with special meanings are shared, and being together has an extra special importance. For our employees who won’t be able to be with their families, it can be a difficult time. For those experiencing that separation for the first time, the emotional strain of not being able to return home can feel overwhelming.
In the spirit of the season, let’s all remember that home is more than just a physical space; it’s a sense of belonging and connection. Providing small touches of holiday cheer such as decorations, group meals, and activities can help make the holiday season feel more welcoming and familiar. Ask employees if they have any special holiday requests and ensure they have means of communicating with distant family. Offer a warm handshake and a pat on the back with a holiday greeting in their native language, perhaps; ¡Feliz Navidad y Próspero Año Nuevo! These seemingly small gestures can be so important in helping your employees know that you appreciate their sacrifices, and that you appreciate them as part of your farm family.
Happy holidays and a joyous New Year to your farm family from our farm family.
By Jay Canzonier, Cornell University. Permission granted to repost, quote, and reprint with author attribution.
The post Farm-provided Employee Housing and the Holidays appeared in The Ag Workforce Journal.
