A free feed for drought-affected Taranaki farmers – and free feed for their livestock
PBCC volunteers with the Rapid Relief Team (RRT) will be holding an event in the Taranaki region of New Zealand next month, for farmers who are doing it tough due to the drought conditions, to offer them both practical and moral support as they face the prospect of a difficult winter.
The Farmers Community Connect event will take place on Friday 2 May in Hawera, with hundreds of donations of livestock feed to be distributed to farmers who attend. Farmers must register their attendance to receive two one-tonne bulk bags of livestock feed.
RRT NZ Director Cameron Prestidge said the FCC event gives farmers who are struggling to feed and water their livestock during the ongoing dry spell, an opportunity to meet up with others experiencing similar hardships and connect with support networks.
“RRT wants to give farmers and their communities a day out, to take a break from the everyday challenges, share a meal with their mates, and be connected to rural support services,” said Cameron. “RRT volunteers will be cooking up a free barbeque feast, both breakfast and lunch, and we will also be distributing two one-tonne bulk bags of donated livestock feed to each registered farmer because we know any support can go a long way.
“Drought takes a huge toll on farming communities – and we want to reassure farmers in the Taranaki region that they aren’t alone, there is always support there if they need it.” The FCC event will be held from 7am until 1pm at the Egmont Showgrounds.
For any farmers not yet registered to attend, they can do so at this link. Representatives from the Ministry of Primary Industries (MPI) will also be in attendance.
As the charitable arm of the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church, RRT supports frontline workers and emergency services by providing food, donations and other resources, as well as hosting events for the community. Established in 2013 to assist emergency services in times of disaster and crisis by providing meals and other support, it’s expanded to more than 16,000 volunteers and provides support to the community through charitable donations and events. For more information on RRT, please go to www.rrtglobal.org/.
