Editor’s note: Husker Harvest Days is Sept. 10-12 in Grand Island, Neb. Visit HuskerHarvestDays.com.

By Charlotte Brockman

Every year, thousands of FFA students from across Nebraska come to Husker Harvest Days to learn more about agriculture and identify the role they will play in the future.

“HHD and Heartland United Way have partnered for a dual purpose of solving food insecurity in our area by hosting a food drive and working with FFA chapters across Nebraska,” says Karen Rathke, president of Heartland United Way.

Last year, about 12,500 meals were distributed through food banks, backpack programs and other organizations across Nebraska from the HHD food drive.

Rathke encourages FFA members to think outside the box with their donations this year. There is a great need for protein sources and complete meals. Rathke says there is an increased need for boxed macaroni and cheese and canned chicken.

Give back, get in free

For the past 15 years, the price of admission for FFA members has been five food products each. Heartland United Way collects the donations. The food drive is supported by Conduit. Visit them at DIBW1709.

“Through this exchange, students are making a difference by helping local food pantries and backpack programs to have the things they need while also being able to grow their career through agricultural networking,” Rathke says.

In 2023, 112 FFA chapters participated to collect 14,471 pounds of food. This was consolidated with food collected at grocery stores in Grand Island, leading to 15,000 pounds of food to be donated.

In addition to granting entrance to HHD in exchange for food donations, Heartland United Way also gives a $200 donation to the FFA chapter with the largest contributions by weight. Last year, the York chapter won top honors with a donation of 562 pounds of food.

Sustainability on display

This year, FFA chapters were given reusable bags. Chapters can bring their HHD donation in these bags to reduce plastic waste at the show.

While entrance to the show only will be given to FFA members in exchange for food items, all attendees are welcome to donate to the HHD food drive or at a participating grocery store in Grand Island.

Brockman writes from Lincoln, Neb.