Last year, local farmer Ashli Overton directed a $5,000 Bayer Fund America’s Farmers Grow Communities grant donation to Mattoon CUSD #2. This year, the grant has been renewed, with funds once again going to support the MMS and MHS Greenhouse Ag Program. Some of the new supplies to benefit the programs include raised garden beds, hydroponic unit supplies, and more.
Kim McQueen, Mattoon Middle School Agriculture Teacher and FFA Advisor, stated, "With the role of agriculture in our society being so important and prevalent in all areas around us, it is imperative that we teach our younger generations to appreciate, learn and continue to improve agriculture ideas and standards for future generations. Our students need to see the impact agriculture has on our generations past and present. We are so thankful for this grant that allows us to partner with our community and glean knowledge and talents to continue building the agriculture experience in many ways and forms.”
Since 2010, the America’s Farmers programs have awarded millions to nonprofits, aspiring ag students, and public schools across rural America.
To learn more about the Bayer Fund, visit www.fund.bayer.us. 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.