Catskills farmer flood relief fund

Two weeks. Two floods. It's left many communities in our region feeling helpless and looking for ways to help rebuild.

Many neighbors have contacted Pure Catskills looking for ways to help farmers directly. One of those neighbors was Morgan George, the herd manager at Sherman Hill Farmstead, who is organizing a fundraiser to do just that!

The big event, 'Raise the Roof!,' will take place Sunday, September 18th from 4:30 to 9:00 PM at the Hamden Inn, 35769 State Highway 10, Hamden, NY.

Admission to the event is offered by donation, large or small. Local musicians and writers will provide entertainment. Proceeds from the event's silent auction, featuring local artwork and products, will go toward the relief fund. Silent auction donations are still being accepted. Please contact Morgan at target409@hotmail.com or (607) 829-6886 for more information.

Every dollar gathered through the fund will be distributed to farmers in need. A diverse review panel of local farmers will oversee the distribution of need-based funding awards. The goal is to fill needs not met by funds available from Federal, State and non-profit sources. The Watershed Agricultural Council, of which Pure Catskills is an initiative, is serving as the fiscal sponsor for the fund.

Those unable to attend the fundraiser but interested in donating to the farmer relief fund may make a tax-deductible donation online at the Council's donation page. Please fill the "Designate your donation to a specific program or fund" field with "Catskills Farmer Relief." Mail checks made out to "WAC" to WAC, 33195 State Highway 10, Walton, NY 13856. Please write "Catskills Farmer Relief" in the memo line.

Mark your calendars! Spread the word! See you on the 18th!