Midwest Food Bank Provides Critical Hay Relief to Farmers Post-Hurricane Helene
Hurricane Helene tore through North Carolina's agricultural heartland, leaving farmers scrambling to sustain their livestock. In the wake of the hurricane, vast swathes of farmland have been rendered unusable, and local livestock producers face a grim reality: no feed for their cattle.
Recognizing this urgent need, Midwest Food Bank has mobilized 650 large alfalfa hay bales for delivery to the WNC Regional Livestock Center in Canton, NC. This effort marks a new chapter in the nonprofit's disaster response—extending beyond food relief to support the broader agricultural system.
"Disaster relief comes in many forms, and we are here to support," said Eric Hodel, CEO of Midwest Food Bank. "We're using our farm-based roots to support agriculture when it's needed most."
How You Can Help
While the hay has been generously donated, transporting it to North Carolina is costly. Each truckload of hay costs approximately $1,500 in fuel. Donations can be made online to help offset fuel costs for this effort at midwestfoodbank.org/relief.
Midwest Food Bank is also seeking volunteers with trucking experience or access to semi-tractors and trailers. Volunteers are critical to ensuring timely delivery to farmers counting on these supplies. If you can help, please call Midwest Food Bank at 309-663-5350.
Why This Matters
Livestock is at the core of the agricultural economy, and without feed, entire communities could face long-term economic setbacks. Founded on a farm, Midwest Food Bank is now helping farming communities recover in times of crisis. By providing hay to farmers, we aren't just feeding animals—it's sustaining a vital link in the food supply chain.
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