Midwest Food Bank’s Lifeline to Hurricane-Ravaged Farmers: Hay Delivery Initiative Begins
In a commendable effort to support livestock in hurricane-affected regions, the Midwest Food Bank (MFB) is launching its first initiative to deliver feed, facilitated by a generous donation of alfalfa hay from a central Illinois farmer who wishes to remain anonymous. Eric Hodel, CEO of MFB, emphasized the urgency of the situation, noting the significant need for livestock feed in areas impacted by Hurricanes Helene and Milton.
The initiative involves transporting around 600 round bales of hay, with the first deliveries headed to the WNC Regional Livestock Center near Asheville, North Carolina. Each round trip covers approximately 700 miles, and as of November 14, five loads have been successfully delivered, with four expected to leave by November 18. Hodel, who also farms, is calling for additional assistance from truck drivers and farmers to help transport the hay efficiently, aiming for completion before Christmas.
Ron Farney, a dedicated volunteer driver for MFB, recently completed his first delivery and reported deep appreciation from local farmers. He recounted the challenges faced during the travel, including road closures due to storm damage, yet highlighted the local community’s gratitude, with one farmer stating, “You are saving farmers from bankruptcy.”
MFB, founded in 2003 by Bloomington farmer David Kieser, has evolved to provide disaster relief in unexpected ways. In addition to hay deliveries, MFB continues its traditional food-giving operations, projecting over 40 loads of food and supplies for people and 30 loads of hay for livestock by year’s end.
For those interested in contributing to this vital effort, MFB encourages volunteers to join the caravan by calling 309-663-5350.
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