CIRCLEVILLE, Ohio — The Pickaway County Fair has joined a statewide initiative to combat hunger by participating in the fifth annual Fight the Hunger, Stock the Trailer contest, presented by Farm Credit Mid-America and sponsored by Rural 1st, encouraging youth leadership and supporting local food banks.
The Pickaway County Fair started over the weekend and runs until Saturday, June 21.
The friendly competition, launched in 2021, engages Ohio county fairs to rally communities and collect food donations for local food banks. Participants, primarily young leaders, employ creative methods like fairground scavenging and club-level contests to boost donations. This year, the contest expands to include fresh protein from livestock auctions, reflecting growing interest in diverse donation options.
“Pickaway County’s fair is a community hub, and this contest unites people for a vital cause,” said Rudi Pitzer Perry, regional vice president for agricultural lending at Farm Credit Mid-America. “It’s inspiring to see youth leaders drive participation to help those in need locally.”
Since its inception, the contest, also held in Indiana, has amassed over 950,000 pounds of food donations. Participating fairs receive a $500 award, with top counties in each of Ohio’s five regions earning additional prizes: $5,000 for first place, $1,500 for second, and $500 for third. Prize money supports local agricultural youth programs, fostering rural community development.
“The real winners are the communities we serve,” Perry said. “This initiative empowers young leaders and bolsters food banks helping local families.”
Farm Credit Mid-America and Rural 1st invested nearly $4.5 million in rural and agricultural programs in 2024, including $450,000 for Ohio’s next generation of agricultural leaders and $82,000 for Ohio 4-H programs.
Donations can be dropped off at the Pickaway County Fairgrounds, Gate D Entrance/East Parking Lot, 415 Lancaster Pike, Ohio 43113.