MILROY — During this time of year, the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau Women’s Leadership Committee works with local farmers and the community to collect monetary, food or other items for the Farmers Care Program. Farmers Care is a program that recognizes the commitment of farm families and our communities across Pennsylvania to raising healthy food for our communities. Our farm communities also volunteer to help those in need, including our ongoing partnership with the Ronald McDonald House Charities. Since 1998, the Farmers Care program has raised over $1.3 million for Ronald McDonald Houses located in five cities across the state. We are proud of the commitment our farm community has shown to help supply the necessities needed by the families who are served by the Ronald McDonald House Charities.

This year, the Farmers Care Day at the Hershey Ronald McDonald House will be March 10. Donations are being accepted now through March 8. A wishlist, with items needed specific to the Hershey RMH, includes pantry Items: single-serve chips and salty snacks, juice boxes, individual cookie and cracker packs, individual mixed nuts or trail mix packets. Please check the expiration dates on food items. Hershey RMH cannot accept outdated items. Household items: Lysol all-purpose cleaner, Pledge multipurpose cleaner, Tide free and gentle laundry pods, All free and clear laundry pods and disinfectant wipes. Office supplies: 8 1/2″ x 11″ white copier paper. Gift cards for Sam’s Club, Walmart, Amazon, and Staples are most needed. Checks are always welcome and should be made payable to RMHC of Central PA.

Chances are you probably know someone who has used a Ronald McDonald House in the past. Having had the opportunity to meet some of the families who have used the Ronald McDonald House facilities, I know how much it means to these families to have a place to stay away from home and not have the stress and worry of trying to find a hotel and food all while caring for a seriously ill family member. Ronald McDonald House Charities is able to provide as close to “home” experience as possible. Please consider making a donation.

Donations can be dropped off at Union Mill, 316 Applehouse Rd. in Belleville, East Gate Feed and Grain, 141 Three Cent Ln. in Reedsville or Fisher’s