Young Farmers & Ranchers top $100,000 donation to the Montana Food Bank Network
November 18, 2025
The Montana Farm Bureau Federation (MFBF) Young Farmers and Ranchers (YF&R) Committee presented a check for $8,000 to the Montana Food Bank Network (MFBN) on Monday, November 17 at their new warehouse location in Missoula. Especially notable this year was that the total donation amount since 2011 is more than $104,000.
The donation came from proceeds raised during the YF&R Hoofin’ it for Hunger race September 20 in Dillon, thanks to generous local sponsors, participants and county Farm Bureaus. Celebrating its 15th year, in-person participants competed in a 5K and 10K on a scenic trail through the Wheat family ranch. Virtual runners made up a portion of the proceeds to the Montana Food Bank Network.
YF&R Committee Chair Nick Courville said, “We’re so proud that our Young Farmers and Ranchers have provided the Montana food Bank Network with more than $100,000 over the past 15 years. The community support has been incredible. The partnership with the Montana Food Bank Network is rewarding as we both strive to raise awareness for hunger relief in Montana and continue this incredible relationship.”
MFBN Chief Development Officer Bill Mathews noted, “The Hoofin' it for Hunger event has created awareness for hunger relief in Montana since 2011, and it has raised a total of $104,550 for Montana Food Bank Network, including this year's donation of $8000. That amount has provided at least 418,200 meals for those in need. Montana Food Bank Network is grateful for the support of and partnership with the Montana Farm Bureau Federation and Young Farmers & Ranchers, as well as their dedication to the Hoofin’ it for Hunger event.”
Mathews added that this year, the donation is especially welcome. “Food insecurity across the state has continued to rise in 2025 due to inflation, higher food costs, and the recent federal government shutdown. In Montana, one in eight people, including one in six children, experience food insecurity. Donations like this have a significant impact on those facing food insecurity on a day-to-day basis.”
The donation presentation occurred as part of the Montana Farm Bureau Federation Convention taking place at the Hilton Garden Inn in Missoula through Thursday, November 20, 2025.
Source: MFBF
Photo Credit: Center for Nutrition and Health Impact
