MANSFIELD—Farm Credit Mid-America, in partnership with Rural 1st® and several area county fairs, is set to launch the third annual Fight Hunger, Stock the Trailer food drive contest, aimed at benefiting local food banks across Ohio. The friendly competition encourages junior fairs to rally their communities and raise food donations in support of those in need. This initiative represents one of the many ways Farm Credit Mid-America and Rural 1st® actively give back to rural communities and show their support for local agriculture.
Evan Hahn, Regional Vice President of Agricultural Lending for Farm Credit Mid-America in Ohio, shared his enthusiasm for the growth of Fight Hunger, Stock the Trailer, which started as a pilot project but has now evolved into a state-wide endeavor. Last year’s efforts saw over 50 junior fairs from various corners of Ohio collect nearly 170,000 pounds of food, providing essential assistance to 74 local food banks. As the contest enters its third year this summer, the organizers are eager to witness the further growth and impact on the community.
The food donation process is straightforward for local community members who wish to participate. They are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items to each county fair during the specified dates:
- Richland County Fair: August 6-12
- Morrow County Fair: August 28-September 4
To make the donation process easier for attendees, signs and banners will be strategically placed to direct them to the food donation areas at each county fairground. At the conclusion of each fair, the total weight of all donations will be calculated, and the fairs that raise the most food will be rewarded.
Prizes will be awarded to the fairs based on their performance in the contest. Each participating county fair will receive a $500 award for their contributions to the food drive. The fair that raises the highest amount of food will be honored with a $5,000 donation, while the second and third-place fairs will receive $3,500 and $1,500, respectively. All prize money awarded will go to support local junior fair activities, promoting growth and development within the community.
This year’s Fight Hunger, Stock the Trailer contest will be hosted on a regional basis, with Farm Credit Mid-America Financial Officer Robb Webb, Associate Financial Officer Lindy McLaughlin, and Financial Relationship Specialist Jennifer Yates leading the local efforts.
For those interested in participating or learning more about the counties involved in the 2023 food drive contest, Farm Credit Mid-America and Rural 1st® can be reached at (330) 823-8884. By coming together to support this initiative, individuals can make a significant impact on the lives of those facing food insecurity while also fostering a stronger sense of community and cooperation in the region.