Farming and ranching are full of unexpected challenges. Every day presents new hurdles in raising a successful crop or herd, but occasionally, more serious issues arise that threaten the longterm future of the operation. Mike Schutte is a third-generation farmer who works alongside his father and son near Juniata, NE. In July of 2023, a shop fire dealt a devastating blow to their livelihood, destroying most of their machinery, tools and vehicles. As they began to assess their many losses and with harvest looming, Mike's son Micah reached out to a well-known ag influencer for support. Laura Farms has amassed a large following through her YouTube videos that document her family's daily farming activities in rural south central Nebraska. Upon hearing of the Schuttes' tragedy, Laura featured their story on her channel, helping drive support for the family during their recovery. She also encouraged Mike to apply for assistance through Farm Rescue. Following his initial phone call to our field operations manager, volunteers and equipment were deployed to help bring in the Schuttes' soybean crop. Laura also joined the effort, volunteering as a combine operator and highlighting our mission through a featured video. Farm Rescue was honored to extend a helping hand to Mike and his family during these difficult circumstances, and we truly appreciate the support from Laura Farms in growing awareness of our assistances services.

(Music courtesy of joshwoodward.com)