Tractor Supply Company and the Tractor Supply Company Foundation have donated $100,000 to Farmer Veteran Coalition’s (FVC) Fellowship Fund.
The fund is a grant program that provides direct assistance to veterans in their beginning years of farming or ranching. Help is provided either through grants of equipment or awards ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 to purchase items that will make a crucial difference in the launch of their farm businesses.
Tractor Supply said its contribution will benefit 60 farmer veterans.
Tractor Supply is also providing all veterans, active military, and their dependents with a 15% discount on Tuesday, July 4 in stores nationwide.
“Our longstanding support for veterans is rooted in our core values of gratitude, integrity, and community,” said Mary Winn Pilkington, president of the Tractor Supply Company Foundation. “Agriculture offers a sense of purpose and opportunity ideally suited for veterans beginning new careers. Through our donation to the Farmer Veteran Fellowship Fund, Tractor Supply is honored to support these new farmers while connecting them with the supplies, equipment, and insight that are critical to their success.”
Fellowship winners were selected by a team of seasoned agriculture industry professionals. Applications were evaluated based on farm training, experience and/or transferable skills, level of personal investment in their farm business, and ability to show how an award will help grow their farm business.
Applicants were also asked to share their vision for how their business would support their communities.
“The Farmer Veteran Coalition is grateful for our long-time partnerships with Tractor Supply,” said Jeanette Lombardo, FVC executive director. “Their generosity and continued support of the Fellowship Fund Program has helped FVC grow this program year after year and has made a huge impact on beginning Veteran farmers and ranchers throughout the country. Our members feel their commitment toward our mission and truly appreciate their efforts on our behalf.”