Local Farmer and MCUSD #2 Board Member Ashli Overton recently directed a $5,000 Bayer Fund America’s Farmers Grow Communities donation to Mattoon CUSD #2. The district will use the funds to support their MMS and MHS Greenhouse Ag Programs. Some of the new supplies to benefit the programs include a hydroponic unit, greenhouse tables, gardening supplies, food service products, and more.
Hannah Spain, Mattoon High School Agriculture Teacher, stated, "Farmers live a life that requires them to make many sacrifices, but the hard work does not go unnoticed. The Mattoon FFA and Ag Department understands how many hours they put in during the year to feed the world around them. We strive to push our students to develop a work ethic similar to the farmers in our area. We appreciate this generous grant that will help open the doors for many of the students in our program to see the real world of agriculture."
Since 2010, the America’s Farmers programs have awarded nearly $65 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 worthiest 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.
“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,” said Al Mitchell, Bayer Fund president.
To learn more about how America’s Farmers are making an impact, visit www.AmericasFarmers.com.
About Bayer Fund:
Bayer Fund is a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening the communities where Bayer customers and employees live and work by providing funding for food and nutrition, education and community development projects.
Pictured: Ashli Overton, third from left, presents the $5,000 Bayer Fund America's Farmers Grow Communities grant to Mattoon High School Ag Teachers Tonya Eich, Hannah Spain, and Rachel Probst.