America’s Farmers Grow Communities program, sponsored by Bayer Fund, partners with farmers to provide grants to local nonprofits to help their communities.
Through the program, farmers enroll for the chance to direct a $2,500 donation to a local eligible nonprofit organization of their choice. The America’s Farmers programs have given more than $59 million to rural America since 2010.
Local farmer, Ray Davis, recently directed two $2,500 Bayer Fund America’s Farmers Grow Communities donations to the Bulloch County Fire Department, and the department plans to use the funds to purchase equipment for two stations.
One donation of $2,500 was directed by Mr. Davis to Station #8 in Leefield and the other $2,500 donation to Station #6 in Stilson.
The volunteer members at Station #8, decided to spend the money on structural firefighting tools, and to replace some of their reel-line nozzles. The hand tools purchased are used to pull sheetrock from the ceiling, in order to check for hidden hotspots.
The volunteer members at Station #6, decided to spend the money in several different areas. They felt new meeting chairs, a new sign outside the building, a hose drying rack, and a new water fill hose for the storage tank would be the best use of the donated funds.
“We are very appreciative of Mr. Ray Davis and his willingness to take the time to apply for these grants and then direct them to our stations,” says Fire Chief Chris Ivey.
Since 2010, the America’s Farmers programs have awarded more than $59 million to nonprofits, aspiring ag students and public schools across rural America. Farmers are leaders in their communities, which is why America’s Farmers programs rely on them to help identify the most worthy causes.
Dedicated to making a difference in rural farming communities, the Grow Communities
program asks farmers across the country to participate by nominating nonprofit organizations with resources to strengthen their local communities. Last August, farmers entered for the chance to direct a $2,500 Grow Communities donation to a local eligible nonprofit of their choice. Farmers have directed donations to food banks, emergency response organizations, schools, youth agriculture programs and many others that reflect the spirit and support the vibrancy of rural America.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has affected everyone, including those in rural regions, and farmers play a critical role in helping communities overcome challenges, like the ones we’re currently facing” said Al Mitchell, Bayer Fund president. “Bayer Fund is proud to work side-by-side with farmers to identify local eligible nonprofit organizations that are able to provide their residents with solutions that leave a lasting impact.”
