Local farmers strengthened their fight against hunger with a generous donation of $8,369 to the River Bend Food Bank. This latest contribution marks the 16th consecutive year of giving, pushing the total funds raised to more than $354,000 and translating into over 1.77 million meals for families in need. Jeff Kirwan, a Mercer County farmer, and Mike Secymore of Gold Star FS presented the check to the CEO of River Bend Food Bank, Chris Ford. The Bushels for Hunger initiative unites the Henry, Mercer, and Rock Island County Farm Bureaus and several area agribusinesses. Their persistent effort continues to make a meaningful local impact.
Farmers in Henry, Mercer, and Rock Island Counties are making a difference through the Bushels for Hunger program. In partnership with local grain elevators and ethanol plants, area growers donate a portion of their harvest to support families in need. Participating facilities include Atkinson Grain, Big River Resources, Cargill, CHS Annawan, Gold Star FS, Hillsdale Elevator, and River Valley Cooperative. Since its inception, Bushels for Hunger has provided significant food assistance to local food banks, harnessing the power of community agriculture.