Despite Challenges Washington Beef Counts Program Proves Successful

The results of this year's Beef Counts fundraiser in Washington's Okanogan County was one of the most successful in the past decade, despite recent hardships. Over the past two year, beef producers have dealt with a global pandemic, supply chain shutdowns, as well as record heat, drought and wildfires. But despite all of that, donations at the October 12^th event still topped $24,000.

KayDee Gilkey with the Washington State Beef Commission said this showcases just how resilient Washington beef producers are.

"Beef farmers and ranchers rise to the occasion," said Gilkey. "When there's a need, they step in and help.  And this is just a great example of that, and their support of this program."

The goal of the Beef Counts Program is to provide local food banks in North Central Washington with a year round supply of beef. Gilkey said the stakeholders involved in the program range from farm to plate.

"So whether it's a producer, feeder, processor, retailer or the consumer themselves and hunger relief agencies, all of us are involved in this to help our hungry neighbors in need."

The Beef Counts Program has raised more than $1 million to buy beef to help those in need and provided more than 2.5 million beef servings for families since 2010. ​

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