2024-09-102024-09-102024-09-102023-12-14https://repositorio.ifal.edu.br/handle/123456789/710Family farming plays a fundamental role in the environmental, social, and economic development of the country. Its importance is evident in the production of healthy food, job creation, environmental preservation, and promotion of local development. It is an essential sector in ensuring food security, sustainability, and quality of life for rural communities in Brazil. This work aims to identify the challenges and opportunities of family farming in Marechal Deodoro, Alagoas, through the Merenda da Terra Program. A qualitative case study approach was used, based on literature review of existing studies and direct observation in the study area. The collected data were analyzed and categorized according to the research objectives. The results and discussions showed that the Merenda da Terra Program is an important initiative to strengthen family farming in the region. The diversified production of crops, including tubers, legumes, and fruits, contributes to income and improvement in the farmers' quality of life. However, challenges such as lack of soil resources, inadequate water supply, and the need for incentives for youth participation in family farming were identified. As proposals, it is suggested to organize farmers into associations or cooperatives to strengthen representation and bargaining power, encourage youth participation in family farming, implement an efficient pumping system, and conduct soil analysis as a tool to improve crop productivity. It is concluded that family farming plays a fundamental role in food production and sustainable development, and that through public policies such as the Merenda da Terra Program, it is possible to strengthen this sector and overcome the challenges faced, ensuring food security, environmental preservation, and socioeconomic development.Acesso AbertoAgricultura FamiliarDesafiosPolíticas públicasMerenda da TerraFamily FarmingChallengesPublic PoliciesTrabalho de Conclusão de CursoOUTROS