ELLSWORTH – Team members from Purina in Hager City presented a $10,000 donation to the Ellsworth High School agricultural education department and FFA Chapter on Friday, Feb. 27.

The money will be used to equip EHS’s agricultural lab with equipment that will enhance hands-on learning in crop cultivation, food processing and sustainable farming, and prepare students for agricultural careers. Students will be able to use these hands-on opportunities to expand and strengthen community food security.

The money comes from the Purina Foundation, which aims to recognize organizations that positively impact communities in which Purina operates.

“This contribution from Purina will help give our students access to the hands-on equipment they need to succeed,” said Ellsworth High School FFA Advisor and ag education teacher Katie Christenson. “We look forward to using the funds to equip our school’s agricultural lab with those essential tools and materials.”   

Ag education and FFA prepare students for careers in agriculture. FFA promotes leadership, personal growth and career readiness in students.

“At Purina, we focus on crafting the best quality food for pets, but we are just as passionate about the communities we serve,” said Robinson Galvao, Purina Hager City’s new factory manager. “We are thrilled to present Ellsworth Agricultural Education and FFA Chapter with a Purina Foundation grant and continue our partnership in the community.”

When Christenson applied for the grant, she was looking for funds to build on the basic infrastructure of the newly remodeled agricultural labs and greenhouse in the EHS career and technical education area. She wants to invest in hydropic systems for strawberries, lettuce and taller plants such as tomatoes.

“We are also looking to grow cut flowers for floral design class, and plan to start with carnations,” Christenson said. “And then the overall goal will be to grow produce in the greenhouse and then use that directly in class to do hands-on labs on how to preserve and prepare food, a 'Farm to Table' approach. For example, if we can grow strawberries, we can make strawberry jam by following all the steps and canning it to teach the entire cycle from growing/production to processing and consumption. I would also like to do that with salsa.”

These activities will foster essential life skills, such as teamwork, responsibility and practical knowledge in food growth and preparation, she added.

“The greenhouse project will positively impact our community by supplying fresh produce to the school lunch program and local organizations throughout the school year,” Christenson said.

Linda Donnelly was on hand for the donation presentation, representing the Ellsworth FFA Alumni.

“We’re very fortunate that we’re getting the funding to help supply our new greenhouse,” she said. “It’s greatly appreciated.”

Galvao said this kind of project is part of Purina’s core values, to create partnerships within its communities. Ellsworth High School Principal Marcy Burch told the group that EHS strives to turn out great workers and help students realize their post-secondary opportunities through local businesses.  

In the last five years, Purina has contributed more than $150 million to organizations focused on making a difference for pets, people and the planet. The Purina Hager City factory employs more than 108 local associates. To learn more about causes Purina supports, visit purina.com/partnerships.