01/12/09 Donated hay

Bend Couple develops a Hay Donation Program for Horses When the going gets tough, ranching communities pull together. I'm Jeff Keane stay tuned, I'll be back after the break to tell you how a couple in Central Oregon developed a program to help feed horses this winter. A grass roots effort in Central Oregon is coming to the aide of folks that no longer have money for hay. Here is Susan Allen with more on a unique hay donation program that I am sure will serve as a national model. Jeff, because many horse owners are struggling to afford hay this winter a Bend couple developed a novel program to help keep horses with their owners and out of over crowded rescues. Meghan Evans and her husband Doug, a veterinarian are distributing hay donated either by individuals or purchased through a donation program through the Oregon Humane Society to horse owners throughout Central Oregon. The program distributes a months worth of hay at a time and owners can reapply if needed. To receive free hay owners must allow spontaneous site visits to insure that their horses are being properly fed. Jeff if donations continue Meghan hopes to establish a permanent nonprofit feeding foundation. Susan my hats off to the Evan's I hope their program will implemented by others throughout the Northwest. To donate to hay or cash give the Evans a call in Bend at 541-408-6079. We will also list their phone number on the aginfo.net website under today's American Rancher program if you missed it. I'm Jeff Keane.