The Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association's seventh annual Beef Drive for the Food Banks of Saskatchewan is underway. 

Under the program, cattle producers donate an animal which is then processed and delivered to Food Banks across the province.

SSGA president Garner Deobald says the food banks rely on the people of Saskatchewan to help out their neighbours.

"We're happy to pitch in and do our bit. This is something our members can do to help make sure people have enough good food to eat."

This year’s goal is to collect over 12,000 pounds of beef, in addition to direct financial donations which help with the cost of processing the animals.

Cargill Ltd. is returning as this year’s Beef Drive sponsor, matching cash donations dollar for dollar up to $5,000.00.

Michael Kincade, Executive Director for Food Banks of Saskatchewan says farmers and ranchers have always stepped up and helped their neighbours and friends in times of need.

"In 2022, they donated 11,519 pounds of ground beef which equates to more than $65,000 worth."

He notes that communities across the province will benefit from their kind donation of fresh meat - a hard to come by commodity in most food banks.

Over the last six years, the SSGA's Beef Drive has collected over 50,000 pounds of ground beef for the Food Banks of Saskatchewan - a retail value of almost a quarter million dollars.

For more information or to make a donation to the Beef Drive, contact the SSGA office at (306) 757-8523.