Central Washington 4-H Clubs Need Help

Local county fairs are just around the corner, and some area children will need a little assistance to pay for this year’s livestock events.  That where the Ephrata and Soap Lake 4-H Ag Booster Clubs step in, to offer financial assistance to young people who struggle to make ends meet.  Booster Volunteer Libby Anderson told the Washington Ag Network contrary to popular belief, many of their participants don’t live on a farm, and don’t have the needed items at their disposal.

She said purchasing a small animal, like sheep, pigs, can get very expensive very fast, when you take in to account the costs of the feed, veterinarian needs, as well as show equipment.

"And a lot of times when it comes down to sale day at the fair, their price that they receive per pound is not sufficient to cover their costs.”

Anderson added these donations are greatly appreciated and help local young people.

“If you were ever involved in 4-H or FFA or if you had a child or a grandchild involved in the program, it is a good experience.  A lot of youth come back from fair with great memories and it can be a really successful program.”

Anderson said in 2015, the Booster club enjoyed a record year of donations, but each year they spend all their funds, which means they start the year with zero.

Donations can be made to the Ephrata Chamber of Commerce at PO Box 275, Ephrata, WA  98823.

For more information, please contact Libby Anderson, Booster Volunteer at (509) 989-5726.

If you have a story idea for the Washington Ag Network, call (590) 547-1618, or e-mail gvaagen@cherrycreekradio.com