CLARION CO., Pa. (EYT) — Western Pennsylvania farmers are joining forces to support their fellow farmers affected by Hurricane Helene, delivering much-needed hay to affected regions.
On Wednesday night, the first load of hay from the NW PA Hay Drive initiative arrived at the Western North Carolina Regional Livestock Center shortly after 9:00 p.m., according to a Facebook post by organizer Brittany Eisenman.
The effort by local farmers and volunteers relies heavily on collaboration. Farmers, truckers, and donors have all played essential roles, according to Eisenman. She described how different contributors have stepped up. One such donation included 54 large horse-quality square bales from Dan and Lorie Park, with transportation provided by Barber Trucking Inc. Another load of 18 round bales, donated by Barb Kifer and Tasia and Bryce Altman, were transported on Thursday by Charlie Mowery.
The Pennsylvania Farm Bureau’s Region 6 made a significant financial contribution to the drive, raising over $5,500.
Eisenman expressed heartfelt gratitude in her post, highlighting the efforts of Mark Muir, Nick Mobilia, and others from Erie and Crawford Counties.
The hay drive shows no signs of slowing down, with three additional loads scheduled to leave Reynoldsville, Knox, and Union City soon.
Volunteers and donors are encouraged to keep supporting the cause as the effort continues to grow by texting 814-221-4291 or by heading to Eisenman’s Facebook page.