Canadian farmers Have aided 66 charities and non-profits that make life better in small towns across the country.

They'll each receive $2,500 grants from the Monsanto Fund as part of the 2016 Canada's Farmers Grow Communities program.

Each non-profit was nominated by a local farmer who applied on behalf of their favourite cause.

Among the 18 recipients in Alberta is the Vulcan County Health and Wellness Foundation which was nominated by Ron Marert of Vulcan.

The fund received over 500 entries this year. Winners were drawn by board members of the independent administrator, Agriculture in the Classroom - Manitoba, on October 6, 2016.

"You hear $2,500 and you might think that's just a drop in the ocean," said Kelly Funke, public affairs manager at Monsanto Canada. "What I've learned from speaking with farmers and charities across Canada is that this can be a huge amount for some, or even just enough to push a fundraising project to meet its goal. And all because a farmer believed in the cause enough to take action."

The Monsanto Fund plans to continue the Canada's Farmers Grow Communities program in 2017.

Farmers and rural residents can watch for details at winter trade shows and also visit www.CanadasFarmers.ca in January 2017 or more information.

A complete listing of all 66 winning entrants is available.