By Andi Anderson
Indiana poultry farmers demonstrated remarkable generosity in 2024, contributing significantly to combating food insecurity. During the 77th annual Governor's Poultry Presentation at the Indiana Statehouse, Gov. Eric Holcomb and industry leaders recognized their efforts to support local communities.
Over the year, Indiana poultry producers donated 250,000 pounds of duck, turkey, and chicken meat to food banks, along with one million dozen chicken eggs and 50,000 dozen duck eggs. Beyond food donations, they provided over $120,000 in financial contributions to charitable organizations across the state.
Gov. Holcomb praised the farmers, highlighting their commitment to both agriculture and their communities. “Indiana poultry producers truly embody the generosity of the Hoosier spirit,” he said, acknowledging their efforts to feed both global and local populations.
Indiana’s poultry sector plays a vital role in the state’s economy. It contributes over $18.34 billion in economic activity and directly employs nearly 13,000 people while supporting 35,719 additional jobs in related industries. Indiana ranks first in duck production, third in egg production, and fourth in turkey production, according to the USDA National Agriculture Statistics Service.
Becky Joniskan, President of the Indiana State Poultry Association (ISPA), emphasized the importance of providing protein for healthy diets. She expressed gratitude for the opportunity to share the work of Indiana’s poultry farms with local communities.
The annual Governor’s Poultry Presentation, a tradition since the 1940s, celebrates the strength and generosity of Indiana’s poultry industry. This year’s poultry donations were gifted to Second Helpings, a hunger relief agency in Indianapolis, continuing a legacy of giving that strengthens both agriculture and communities.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-suriyasilsaksom
Categories: Indiana, Rural Lifestyle