“Stronger You Bureau County” and “Barker Farm Outreach” Awarded $2,500 Grant in Bureau County
Two local initiatives, Stronger You Bureau County and Barker Farm Outreach, have each been awarded $2,500 Community Impact Grants by the Bureau County Farm Bureau and COUNTRY Financial. “Stronger You Bureau County” will use the funding to expand its wellness programs, including the Steps that Connect Walking Program and the upcoming 2026 Wellness Experience on June 9th in Princeton. Plans also include a suicide prevention walk and continued support for wellness signage along the Zearing Park Walking Path.
“With the funding received, Stronger You will be able to continue their Steps that Connect Walking Program, as well as host the 2026 Bureau County Stronger You Wellness Experience on June 9th in Princeton,” said Stephanie Morris, Community Educator at Stronger You. “Additionally, Stronger You will be looking to host a suicide prevention walk in the fall or winter of 2026, as well as continue to provide wellness signs for the Zearing Park Walking Path.”
“Barker Farm Outreach” has received a significant boost for its mission to fight rural food insecurity. Thanks to a Community Impact Grant, the farm will construct a new greenhouse to start seeds and grow seedlings affordably. Kathy Barker, founder of Barker Farm Outreach, says the facility represents hope and a commitment to providing healthy, fresh produce to neighbors in need.
“With this facility, we can start seeds and grow seedlings more affordably, maximizing our resources to better serve those in need,” said Kathy Barker, Founder and Executive Director at Barker Farm Outreach. “The greenhouse symbolizes hope, growth, and the opportunity to provide more fresh, healthy food to our rural neighbors who might otherwise go without. We are sincerely grateful to the Bureau County Farm Bureau and COUNTRY Financial for supporting our mission and helping us make a meaningful impact.”
More details can be found at bureaucountyfarmbureau.org or call the Bureau County Farm Bureau Office at 815-875-6468.
Top picture left to right: Kathy Barker (Barker Farm Outreach), Jill Frueh (Bureau County Farm Bureau), and TJ Scruggs (COUNTRY Financial).
Bottom picture left to right: Stefanie Morris (Stronger You Bureau County), Jill Frueh (Bureau County Farm Bureau), and TJ Scruggs (COUNTRY Financial).