Minnesota’s unique county soybean program helped feed families during the Easter holiday.

The Norman County Soybean & Corn Growers and their checkoff dollars are continuing their support of the Rural Enrichment and Counseling Headquarters (REACH) by donating hams to help those struggling with hunger during the holiday season. 

“Once again, I want to thank the Norman County Soybean & Corn Growers Association and their checkoff dollars for their kind and generous support,” REACH Executive Director Stephanie Schenck said. “This contribution will be going to the Hendrum Food Pantry, where we see, on the average, 20 households utilize the food pantry each month. Food banks are struggling as inflation keeps rising, so, again, we are grateful for the donation.”

“With rural communities facing challenges of food insecurity, more people found themselves turning to REACH and other food sectors for help,” Board Director Austen Germolus said. “REACH does wonderful work, and we are happy to step up alongside them to help families in our community.”

Pork products such as ham and Minnesota soybeans go hand in hand. Soybean meal makes up 42% of the meal fed to livestock, and an estimated 1.25 million tons of soybean meal are required to feed all of Minnesota’s pigs. 

‘A meaningful difference’

The Marshall County Soybean & Corn Growers and their checkoff dollars are supporting local food shelves in Argyle, Grygla-Gatzke, Strandquist and Warren. 

“The Food Shelf program in our county is very important and helpful to those in need,” said Tony Johnson, president of the Marshall County Soybean & Corn Growers. “The Marshall County Soybean and Corn Growers are happy to be able to help those that need assistance.” 

The farmers’ contributions will help feed individuals and families in need.  

“Thank you for your recent food donation to the Area Food Shelf,” said Karen Gunderson, an area food shelf volunteer. “Your contribution has made such a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve.”