Quality of Life Grants
The AgStar Fund for Rural America grants enhance the quality of life for farmers and rural communities.
Adrian Ambulance Service – Provided funds to purchase a LIFEPAC 12 Biphasic Defibrillator/Monitor to replace outdated equipment and make it compatible with other emergency units in the area.
First Call For Help South Central – Monies from the grant will allow for widespread outreach throughout south-central Minnesota to inform area residents about the First Call For Help service.
Hospice Cottage, Inc. – Provided funds for hospice care for terminally ill persons in rural southern Minnesota.
Lake Wilson Fire Department – Provided funds to purchase a Wildland Fire Skid Unit to be used to suppress grass or cropland fires. Learn more.
LeRoy-Ostrander FFA – Provided funds to purchase a milk machine to dispense and promote agriculture products, while also teaching students about managing and operating a business.
The Mankato Area Growers' Association – Funds continue to help provide an opportunity for specialty crop farmers of all sizes and sales volumes to market their farm products. Monies from the grant will be used for general financial operation and expansion through program support and staffing of the Mankato Farmers' Market.
Sherburn Fire – Provided funds to purchase fire and rescue turnout gear, including bunker pants, fire coats and suspenders.
South Central Volunteer Dive Team – Provided funds to purchase dive rescue equipment to assist in underwater emergencies and water safety education.
The Southeast Minnesota Ag Alliance – Funds helped expand the “Ag in the Classroom” program and provided general operating support. Additonally, funds from the grant will be used to hire a part-time coordinator/executive secretary along with technology to support this position to help provide clear and accurate information to the public and the eight-county area about the benefits that farming provides to communities.
Yellow Ribbon Minnesota – Provided funds for an initiative to focus on awareness, training and education on mental health issues impacting farmers and rural areas.
To find out more about the AgStar Fund for Rural America, contact Jody Bloemke, Fund Administrator. Email jody.bloemke@agstar.com, call 507-345-5656, or write to P.O. Box 4249, Mankato, MN 56002.