How You Can Support Hardworking CNY Farmers After Barn Collapses

Central New York farmers are going through a rough time—barns have collapsed, and their livelihoods are on the line.

These are the folks who keep our tables full, and now they could really use a hand.

If you can, consider chipping in to their GoFundMe campaigns to help them get back on their feet. Even a little goes a long way. Every little bit counts!

If you can't donate, there are other ways to help out. "If people would just offer to lend a hand clearing roofs that would make a difference," said one Central New York farmer. "Besides us doing it, we also have the day-to-day of feeding and caring for the animals that takes us a lot of time."

Sokoloff's Family Farm

The Sokoloff family farm in Western suffered an unimaginable loss. This winter’s relentless snowfall caused their barn to collapse, tragically taking two-thirds of their herd.

Two additional buildings and vital equipment were also severely damaged under the immense snow.

Sokoloff Family Farm GoFundMe

Credit - Talia Baker/GoFundMe

Pedersen Family Farm

The Pedersen Family Farm in Lee Center lost the heifer barn and up to 60 cows due to a barn collapse from the weight of the snow.

The farm is insured but insurance won’t cover everything. The family is looking for help with the rebuild of the barn and to replace the head of cattle they lost.

Pedersen Family Farm GoFundMe

Wratten Family Farm Fire

The Wratten Family Farm lost 125 head of cattle after a tragic fire.

Wratten Family Farm GoFundMe

Helping Hands Kits

Cornell Cooperative Extension of Oneida County has created 'Helping Hands' kits (hats, gloves, shovels, water, shelf stable food, and more) to help those impacted by the harsh winter weather.

If you are interested in contributing items for the kits, donations can be dropped off at the CCE Oneida County Office at 121 Second Street in Oriskany.

If you are in need or know of someone in need you can contact Celeste Oppito at cmo95@cornell.edu or (315) 736 - 3394 ext. 111.

The Ag Team has also created a Disaster Resource Information Folder to help anyone who has been affected by this winter weather and to prepare for any future disasters.

Disaster Resource Information

Equipment & Service Help

Hodge Creek Earth & Site Development, a demolition and excavation company is stepping up to help everyone who has suffered a collapse under the heavy snow.

"Our hearts at Hodge Creek are heavy with all the unfortunate building collapses, especially for our Agricultural community. My wife and I have decided to offer our equipment and services at discounted rates to farms, businesses, and individuals in the clean up process that will be needed in the near future."

If anyone is in need of clean up of any damaged structures reach out to Hodge Creek Earth & Site Development.

If you know any other farms with a GoFundMe, email Polly@bigfrog104.com.