Nebraska state fair donates frozen chickens to shelters

By Scout Nelson

In keeping with their annual tradition, the Nebraska State Fair donated 169 full-sized frozen chickens to local area shelters after the Aksarben Stock Show, held at Fonner Park from September 25 to 28. This 'give-back initiative' reflects the Stock Show’s longstanding commitment to supporting Nebraska communities.

Each year, the harvested broilers—raised by youth exhibitors from across the region—are processed and donated to shelters that provide essential services to families in need. This year, the birds were donated to several non-profits in the Grand Island and Kearney areas.

The chickens, butchered and prepared after the Stock Show, exemplify the vital resources that farming and ranching contribute to the public, an aspect that event organizers emphasize as crucial for the future of agriculture.

“The Aksarben Stock Show has always been about more than competition—it’s about fostering a spirit of camaraderie and teaching young people the importance of using their talents to serve those around them,” said Jaime Parr, Executive Director of the Nebraska State Fair and Aksarben Stock Show. “I’m truly thrilled that our team continues this tradition of providing food to local shelters and are deeply proud of the youth exhibitors who make this possible.”

This year’s Aksarben Stock Show attracted thousands of visitors to the Fonner Park campus in Grand Island, including 1,300 youth exhibitors, aged 9-19, who participated in a wide variety of events.

These exhibitors represent the next generation of agricultural leaders, showcasing their skills in livestock shows, speech competitions, livestock judging contests, and a livestock quiz bowl tournament.

The Nebraska State Fair Board of Directors and staff coordinate the Aksarben Stock Show each year, upholding its mission to produce a youth livestock show that celebrates the region’s agricultural heritage while educating and benefiting families.

The Aksarben Stock Show is the second of two annual events organized by the fair and takes place on the last weekend in September.

Photo Credit:nebraska-state-fair