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Rally set to raise awareness, collect protective clothing for local farmworkers

Chris Graham
FFA farmer
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The Association of Farmworker Opportunity Programs and Telamon | TRC are launching a Harvest for Heroes Long-Sleeve Shirt & Raincoat Drive, an effort to provide essential protective clothing for farmworkers as they prepare for the upcoming harvest.

The Waynesboro-Staunton-Augusta County community is encouraged to donate gently used, light-colored, long-sleeved button-down shirts made from natural fibers, such as cotton or linen, to help farmworkers reduce their risk of pesticide exposure and heat-related illness. Additionally, raincoats are needed to protect workers during inclement weather.

The drop-off point for the drive is Tractor Supply Co., 301 Lew Dewitt Boulevard, Waynesboro, with donations being collected on Friday between 1-6 p.m.

Community members can drop off their donations during the Harvest for Heroes Awareness Event Rally, where there will be opportunities to celebrate our farmworkers and growers.

At 2 p.m., a special recognition ceremony will take place to honor local farmers and growers with certificates of appreciation.

The event will also feature tables, tents, and a pop-up kitchen or food truck to create a welcoming atmosphere of gratitude and support.

For those unable to drop off items on Friday, donations can also be placed in collection barrels (donated by McKee Foods) located inside Atlantic Union Bank lobbies in the area.

Chris Graham

Chris Graham

Chris Graham, the king of "fringe media," a zero-time Virginia Sportswriter of the Year, and a member of zero Halls of Fame, is the founder and editor of Augusta Free Press. A 1994 alum of the University of Virginia, Chris is the author and co-author of seven books, including Poverty of Imagination, a memoir published in 2019. For his commentaries on news, sports and politics, go to his YouTube page, or subscribe to his Street Knowledge podcast. Email Chris at [email protected].