The Illinois Farm Families is a group of farmers that span across the state who are driven to inform the common consumer what really happens on today’s farms. To them farming is more than just a profession, it is about caring for the animals and the land. They are committed to providing you with safe, nutritious and affordable food.

The Illinois Farm Families is inviting consumers to enter the Farmers Feed Us Sweepstakes Contest. Two grand prizes of FREE groceries for a year will be given away worth a $5,000 value. Runners-up will receive a fall getaway to an Illinois bed and breakfast or a family harvest day at a real Illinois farm. To enter the contest visit: www.farmersfeedus.or

Illinois Farm Families’ is dedicated to sharing how food is grown by holding conversations with the consumer. Their goal is to give facts about the food you eat and answer questions about farms, farmers and farming from the people who grow it.

Some frequently asked questions that the Illinois Farm Families have answers to are; what is ethanol and why do we need it? There are videos of animals being mistreated, how do I know that’s not normal on farms? Wouldn’t our food be healthier without chemicals? The Illinois Farm Families want to answer questions like these and give back to the community.

The Illinois Farm Families are also seeking Chicago area “consumer moms” who want to experience firsthand the different operations on today’s farms. They want these moms to share their journey by posting the experience online in blogs and videos. To apply to become a Field Mom visit: www.watchusgrow.org or call 1-800-647-7294 or email info@watchusgrow.org for more information. The deadline for the tours ends August 21, 2011.

The Illinois Farm Families is also scheduled to be at the Daley Plaza in Chicago every Thursday through July to answer consumer questions at the Farmers Market.