MOOSE JAW, Sask. — The Sask-atchewan Stock Growers Association’s beef drive has far surpassed its original goal and continues to bring in donations for the province’s food banks.
Shane Jahnke, who was re-elected president at the organization’s recent annual meeting, said the beef drive launched in early November was a highlight of the past year.
Members were challenged to donate an animal, or make a cash donation, to ensure food bank users in Saskatchewan had access to fresh protein.
The goal was 1,000 pounds of hamburger.
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As of mid-June, the initiative had brought in 8,525 lb. worth $48,000 at retail.
“This went above and beyond our membership,” Jahnke said.
The drive didn’t go unnoticed.
Gord Roger, beef business unit manager for Elanco Canada, presented Jahnke with a cheque for $10,000 to help with the beef processing costs.
Elanco has its own project to help deal with hunger and is working to specifically break the cycle in 100 communities around the world. Its 100 Communities fund recognizes projects like the SSGA beef drive.
Steve Compton, executive director of Food Banks of Saskatchewan, said the beef donations have meant families can prepare nutritious meals.
“We certainly cannot begin to express our gratitude for what this amazing campaign has meant to the families we serve,” he said.
Jahnke noted the beef has made a difference for more than 28,000 people.
Meanwhile, also re-elected to the board for the year were first vice-president Bill Huber, second vice-president Kelcy Elford, finance chair Jeff Yorga and past president Doug Gillespie.
The winners of the provincial TESA award for environmental stewardship were Mark and Laura Hoimyr and family of Box H Ranch at Gladmar.
