Hauling Hay to North Carolina: Supporting Farmers in Need

Transporting hay from storage at Joe Whiteman’s Farm in PA

Spruce Pine, a small community with 2,300 residents in western North Carolina, faced devastation when Hurricane Helene struck in September 2024. Helene has been recognized as the second most destructive hurricane in recent history, claiming the lives of at least 230 people. The Fellowship of Christian Farmers International (FCFI) in the Northeast has played a crucial role in providing relief by delivering hay to affected areas near Spruce Pine, where farmers and homeowners lost nearly everything.

To date, six loads of hay have been donated and delivered to those in need. One of these shipments, donated by Roy Hoffman of New Jersey and transported by Humphreys Farm in New Hartford, NY, made its way to Olive Branch Cattle Co. in Marrian, NC, which served as a key distribution point. Upon arrival, farm owners Haley and Robert Polk greeted Alan Humphreys as he delivered the much-needed hay.

Alan Humphreys arriving at Olive Branch Cattle Co.

Additional loads were transported by CP Foster from Westfield, PA, under the banner of “In His Service.” A total of five loads of small square bales were delivered, with FCFI leasing a cargo trailer to streamline the loading and delivery process. Farmers in desperate need of hay for their livestock lined up to receive the shipments in Leicester, NC.

Farmers receiving hay deliveries in Leicester, NC

Another load was generously coordinated and donated by Dave and Sally Good of Troy, PA. Mohawk Valley Chapter President Cliff Kitchen played a key role in securing another shipment from the Vernon Center area of New York. Special thanks go to North Star Orchards in Westmoreland, NY, for clearing their parking lot to serve as a staging location for loading hay.

Severe winter weather in central New York and Pennsylvania made the process even more challenging. With snowfall levels not seen in years, much of the hay had to be loaded onto wagons and transported to main roads before being reloaded onto trailers for delivery.

The generosity of donors who contributed both hay and financial support for trucking has been invaluable. The impact of these efforts is immeasurable, and we extend heartfelt gratitude to all involved.

Truck and wagon bringing hay to load at North Star Orchards

Looking ahead, Bill and Kathy Brown will travel to North Carolina in the first week of April to assess the damage and begin organizing a mission trip to Spruce Pine in September. This trip will provide additional aid and support to the community as they continue to rebuild from the devastation.

Thank you to everyone who has contributed to this vital effort. Your kindness and generosity are making a real difference in the lives of those impacted by Hurricane Helene.