During World War I and World War II the government advocated that citizens grow some of their own food to alleviate pressure on commercial growers and their supply chains so their food could be sent to deployed soldiers. During WW I the gardens were part of national at-home efforts; they had more impact during WW II because of food rationing and because processed and canned foods were mostly shipped to the front lines. Non-combatants, mothers, children, the elderly, were given roles manifesting a direct impact on the on-going conflicts. Growing your own food was patriotic and a contribution to the war effort.