Minnesota corn farmers step up during time of need

Corn farmers across the country are taking actions to help their communities during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In Minnesota, Chippewa County Corn and Soybean Growers donated a pallet of bottled water to its local hospital CCM Health, which serves many of the residents in Chippewa County. The gesture was an opportunity to make the most of an unfortunate situation and help the health care workers bravely serving on the front lines of the pandemic.

Freeborn County Corn and Soybean Growers made a $3,000 donation to three food shelves in Albert Lea and Alden. Recognizing the financial hardship, many families were under due to COVID-19, Freeborn County board member Cole Pestorious said they were eager to be able to help the food shelves experiencing increased traffic.

Murray County Corn and Soybean board members, following the cancellation of this year’s annual meeting, worked with local restaurants to organize a free lunch for the supporters of their organization, as well as for the essential workers during COVID-19.

In addition to supporting the many efforts by county corn organizations, the Minnesota Corn Growers Association is also stepping up to help families facing hunger during COVID-19. On April 30, MCGA sponsored an hour of a local radio telethon to raise funds for Second Harvest Heartland, matching the amount raised over the hour up to a pre-determined amount.