By Blake Jackson
The ongoing federal government shutdown, Kentucky Commissioner of Agriculture Jonathan Shell has launched a statewide initiative to ensure Kentuckians continue to have access to food and essential support during this challenging period.
Partnering with several key organizations - including Farm Credit Mid-America, Kentucky Farm Bureau Federation, Kentucky Farm Bureau Insurance, Tyson Foods, Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, Evans Orchard and Cider Mill, and the Kentucky Association of Health Plans (KAHP) - the Kentucky Department of Agriculture (KDA) and Feeding Kentucky are collaborating to deliver direct aid to affected families across the Commonwealth.
These partners have contributed both financial and in-kind donations to support food distribution efforts through Feeding Kentucky’s extensive network. The contributions include:
- Kentucky Association of Health Plans: $100,000
- Farm Credit Mid-America: $15,000
- Kentucky Farm Bureau Federation: $7,500
- Kentucky Farm Bureau Insurance: $7,500
- Tyson Foods: Nearly 20,000 pounds of fresh chicken products
- Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield: $10,000
- Evans Orchard and Cider Mill: $1,000
Funds and donations will be used to assemble and distribute food boxes, featuring nutritious, Kentucky-grown foods to help families impacted by the shutdown.
“This is a shining example of Kentucky doing what Kentucky does best - coming together,” Commissioner Shell said. “Even when Washington can’t get its act together, Kentuckians don’t wait. We find solutions, work together, and make sure no one gets left behind. This collaboration shows that when agriculture, healthcare, and community unite, we can overcome any challenge.”
Melissa McDonald, Executive Director of Feeding Kentucky, said, “Addressing hunger in our state requires working together, especially now. We are so grateful for our strong partners at the Kentucky Department of Agriculture for bringing this group together to make this possible.”
“The Kentucky Association of Health Plans has been a key partner in advancing our Food Is Medicine work across the state,” Commissioner Shell said.
“Its recent grant to Russell County Hospital is helping expand access to locally grown foods for patients and staff - improving health outcomes, supporting our farmers, and addressing food insecurity all at once. It’s a great example of how smart, local investment can create real change in both our healthcare and agricultural systems.”
For those seeking assistance or wishing to contribute, KDA encourages visiting feedingky.org to learn more about donations, volunteering, or supporting local food banks.
Photo Credit: kentucky-agricultural-board
Categories: Kentucky, Government & Policy