By now you have probably heard and read about the flooding disaster in the Midwest. Twenty-four people have died in the wake of the storm and thousands have been forced to evacuate. And the worst may be yet to come as rivers approach record levels in the next few days.

The Family Farm Disaster Fund was established by Farm Aid to help farm families survive weather-related disasters. Right now we are working with farmers who have been hurt by devastating flooding and severe weather in Iowa, Wisconsin and seven other Midwestern states.

Our first gift for The Family Farm Disaster Fund was sitting on my desk when I walked in Tuesday morning…I couldn’t help but think the timing was perfect. The Xi Chapter of Sigma Alpha at Oregon State University had contacted us early this spring to request permission to hold an auction to benefit Farm Aid. Sigma Alpha exists to promote women in agriculture, so the pairing seemed to be a natural fit! The $1,000 these women raised will go directly to help the farmers in the Midwest who were left reeling after this week’s weather disaster.

A lot of times I have thought to myself, “Well, I don’t have $1,000 to give, or even $50 for that matter. What can I do?” When natural disasters arise they are so big it seems the sacrifice of one person doesn’t matter. But then a group like Sigma Alpha reminds me that it’s not about just me – it’s about everyone working together. Whether it is volunteering in the affected area or making a small sacrifice to make up part of a big relief check, we can make a difference as individuals. Please donate to The Family Farm Disaster Fund and keep America growing!

Information obtained from washingtonpost.com and msnbc.com