GRAND ISLAND, NEBRASKA (September 30, 2026) Chickens from the Aksarben Stock Show are making an impact in central Nebraska long after they leave the show ring.
Each year, the Nebraska State Fair, which coordinates the Aksarben Stock Show, purchases chickens from exhibitors, covers the cost of processing and donates the meat to local nonprofit organizations.
For the second year, Heartland United Way partnered with the Nebraska State Fair to help get those chickens into the hands of local food pantries and shelters working to meet growing needs in our communities.
On September 30, 88 chickens were distributed to 12 local organizations, providing nutritious food for neighbors in central Nebraska.
Recipients included:
- Blessed Sacrament Parish
- Central Community College
- Crossroads Mission Avenue
- Free Food and Many Blessings
- Grand Island Elks Lodge #604
- Hamilton County Food Pantry
- Hope Harbor
- Howard/Greeley County Food Pantry
- Literacy Council of Grand Island
- Little Blue Food Pantry
- Salvation Army
- Wood River Food Pantry