By Andi Anderson
Indiana's county fairs are gearing up for the "Fight the Hunger, Stock the Trailer" food drive challenge, sponsored by Farm Credit Mid-America and Rural 1st. This initiative encourages 4-H youth and Junior Leaders to collect food donations for their communities while competing for cash prizes.
Jessica Weathers, Associate Financial Officer with Farm Credit Mid-America, expresses excitement about the growing participation in the challenge. With approximately 40 counties committed to the competition, organizers anticipate surpassing last year's success, where 36 counties participated.
The competition awards significant prizes to the top-performing 4-H clubs. The winning club receives $5,000, while second through fifth place receives $4,000, $3,000, $2,000, and $1,000 respectively. Additionally, all participating counties receive $250, with the potential to double if they collect over 1,000 pounds of food donations.
Last year's winner, the Wabash County Junior Leaders, collected over 15,760 pounds of food. With statewide participation, the initiative gathered 99,020 pounds. Organizers aim to break the 100,000-pound mark this year, showcasing the impact of community-driven efforts in fighting hunger.
After the county fairs conclude, winners will be announced, celebrating the collective effort to support local food banks and families in need. The initiative not only addresses immediate food insecurity but also fosters a sense of community engagement and service among Indiana's youth.
Local 4-H clubs still have time to join the challenge at their county fair, contributing to a statewide effort to make a difference in combating hunger. As participation grows, so does the chance to positively impact communities across Indiana, showing collaboration and compassion in addressing critical social issues.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-valentinrussanov
Categories: Indiana, General