Farm Rescue awarded $130,000 grant from Bremer Foundation

More farmers in the Upper Midwest will be assisted in a time of need by Farm Rescue through to a $130,000 grant from the Otto Bremer Foundation. The two-year commitment includes a matching fund component for general operations of the non-profit organization, which plants and harvests crops free of charge for family farmers that have suffered a major injury, illness or natural disaster.

“The Otto Bremer Foundation and Bremer banks have been strong and generous supporters of Farm Rescue,” said Bill Gross, Farm Rescue president and founder. “Our ability to assist families in crisis depends on the generosity of individuals, businesses and foundations, such as the Otto Bremer Foundation.”

Farm Rescue has assisted 131 farm families in North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota and Montana since field operations began in 2006. The organization is run primarily by volunteers.

“The foundation is proud to support Farm Rescue,” said William Lipschultz, a trustee of the St. Paul-based foundation. “The unique and worthwhile work of the organization reflects Otto Bremer’s vision of building and maintaining vibrant communities.”

Created in 1944 and named after the founder of Bremer bank, the Otto Bremer Foundation assists people in achieving full economic, civic, and social participation in and for the betterment of their communities. As majority share holder of Bremer banks, the foundation receives a portion of bank profits which enables it to invest in bank communities in the form of grants and program-related investments.

Farm Rescue is now accepting applications for spring planting assistance. To obtain an application or refer a family in need, go to farmrescue.org or call 701-252-2017.

Tags: local news, farm rescue, news