Event Offers an Opportunity to Help Save Small Farms

Though they are part of the region’s heritage, many small family farms are struggling to survive in an era of corporate farming, record debt for farming families, and rising costs of doing business. Now, locals can help these farmers reinvent, stay in business, and remain part of the community.

Through the new Cambria – Indiana Farmer Assistance Fund at Community Foundation for the Alleghenies, organizers aim to raise funds to support business plan development for farmers in Cambria and Indiana counties. If fundraising gains momentum, it could also help farmers cover costs for equipment and the implementation of conservation best management practices associated with sustainable models.

Up first is the Annual Thank a Farmer Dash 5K and Family Fun Walk, set for Nov. 21.

The fund’s founder, Doug Beri Jr., District Manager for the Indiana County Conservation District, said he thought creating an event close to Thanksgiving was especially fitting because farmers have long been a mainstay of the region’s economy. For generations, they have helped put food on the table for families, and now race participants can help ensure that their businesses are sustainable.

“Farmers are the lifeblood of our nation, and the Thank a Farmer Dash is a great opportunity for our community to say ‘thank you’ to our local small farmers by supporting the Cambria – Indiana Farmer Assistance Fund with their registrations,” Beri said.

CLICK HERE to register for the run.

Tickets also will be available the day of the race, and registration begins at 7:30 a.m. at the Ebensburg Trailhead of the Ghost Town Trail (413 S. Julian St., Ebensburg).

Individuals also can support the cause by making a secure online donation to the fund by CLICKING HERE.