By Blake Jackson
A new grant program, launched by the Kentucky Department of Agriculture (KDA) in partnership with Raising Hope and the Kentucky FFA Association, aims to bolster farm safety and well-being.
The initiative, funded with $125,000, will provide grants to high school FFA chapters to host events focused on farm safety, farm rescue, and farmers' health.
"As Kentucky’s Agriculture Commissioner, I am proud to support this initiative that empowers our FFA chapters to address vital issues in agriculture,” Commissioner Shell said.
“By focusing on farm safety, farmers’ health, and farm rescue, we are investing in the well-being of our farming communities and ensuring that our next generation of agricultural leaders is well-equipped to face these challenges. This partnership exemplifies our commitment to safeguarding the future of agriculture in Kentucky."
Raising Hope, a coalition dedicated to promoting farm safety and health awareness, will provide grants of $5,000 and $2,000 to winning FFA chapters.
“Kentucky FFA is honored to partner with the Kentucky Department of Agriculture to support the Raising Hope initiative,” said Kristan Wright, Agricultural Education Consultant/State FFA Advisor. “As a former agriculture teacher at Seneca High School, I have witnessed firsthand the impact that a program like this can make on students and the community. This will allow FFA students from across the state to save lives while educating the public about topics such as grain bin and farm safety.”
The KDA's Farm and Home Safety Program Coordinator, Dale Dobson, has been instrumental in the development of Raising Hope.
With his extensive experience working with FFA students, Dobson understands the importance of promoting farm safety and rescue training.
"I remember joining FFA 50 years ago in 1974,” Dobson said. “I learned then just how great of an organization it truly is. FFA students are the future of agriculture and by working together we can and will save lives."
For more information visit Kentucky Department of Agriculture website at kyagr.com.
Photo Credit: kentucky-ffa
Categories: Kentucky, Business, Rural Lifestyle, Farm Safety