Feds Set Up Fund To Help Earthquake Zone Farms

Feds Set Up Fund To Help Earthquake Zone Farms

Federated Farmers has reopened its Adverse Events Trust Fund to raise funds to support farms affected by the North Canterbury earthquake.

The trust fund will take donations which will be spent on immediate emergency support for farms, including emergency supplies, farm equipment, essential tools and materials.

"It’s a times like this that people are so keen to help, and that’s fantastic, but we have to be aware, the reality is dollars are going to be required to get these farms back up and running," Federated Farmers adverse events spokesperson Katie Milne says.

People have been offering support of all kinds, even turning up to work unannounced on farms in the area.

"We are particularly concerned about people appearing on farms to offer help.

"It is very difficult for farmers to cope with strangers appearing on their properties these days. That’s why we use locals to help locals, if we can."

Wage subsidy funding announced by the government today will also be a huge relief to farms, as it would take the pressure off farm payrolls if farm income is cut.

"Everyone pulling together and helping out is a Kiwi tradition, but we need to make sure the help being offered is directed to the right places," Katie says.

The best way to support the farms in need in North Canterbury and Marlborough is by calling 0800 FARMING (0800 327 646) and ask about making a donation.

ENDS

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