Fellowship of Christian Farmers Partners with Farm Rescue for “Operation Haylift”

The Fellowship of Christian Farmers International (FCFI) is actively carrying out Operation Haylift (OHL) 2026 to provide critical support to ranch families affected by the Ranger Road Fire. This initiative continues to grow, delivering hay, encouragement, and hope to families in need.

Collaboration and Support

During the recent Commodity Classic, Kaleigh Reller connected with Dan Janzen, Executive Director of FCFI, and with Art Free (Texas area leader) to discuss partnership opportunities and support for this year’s Operation Haylift. FCFI is assisting by reimbursing fuel expenses, sharing project updates on social media, and reaching out to farmer networks in affected areas to identify families in need or locate farmers willing to donate hay.

Dan Janzen has also committed to supporting lodging and meals for those hauling the hay. He praised the efficiency of the project, highlighting the amount of work accomplished with limited funds, and expressed interest in exploring additional collaborative opportunities.

Operation Haylift Progress

Since the initial announcement, Operation Haylift has assisted 18 ranch families—15 in Oklahoma and 3 in Kansas. Volunteer drivers from multiple states are actively supporting deliveries, including John Schnitzler (WI), Mark Calderwood (KS), Kenny Crites (IN), Mark Johnston (IL), David Endorf (NE) and Dean Issacs (IN), who are currently carrying out deliveries.

Ben Smith, Farm Rescue president, coordinating logistics and fuel, reported that fuel costs for the Oklahoma and Kansas deliveries totaled only $4,604.45 for the 18 loads delivered, thanks in part to nearby hay sources. Fuel costs in Nebraska are expected to be higher, as hay must be transported from farther away. Ben also noted potential needs for lodging and meal support for teams working in Nebraska which FCFI has agreed to cover.

Expanding to Nebraska

Operation Haylift has now expanded to Nebraska, where four families have signed up to receive support. Kaleigh Reller shared that the team is on the ground, with logistics managed by Ben Smith. Once further progress is made, a media communications guide will be prepared to help share updates and stories from Nebraska.

James Funk, FCFI volunteer, has been compiling a list of local churches, emergency management offices, and extension offices to help identify additional families who need hay or want to donate hay. Ben Smith emphasized the importance of leveraging these local contacts to maximize impact.

Volunteer and Community Involvement

Operation Haylift’s success relies on volunteers, donors, and community partners who ensure that families affected by the Ranger Road Fire receive hay, meals, and encouragement. Farm Rescue Kaleigh Reller highlighted the crucial role of ongoing support from volunteers and partners in making Operation Haylift possible.

Looking Ahead

FCFI will continue delivering hay in Nebraska and expand support as new families are identified. The teams will maintain close coordination with local contacts to find families in need, manage logistics for fuel, lodging, and meals, and share updates through social media and outreach channels.

This ongoing effort demonstrates the power of community, coordination, and faith-driven action in providing essential relief to ranch families during times of crisis. FCFI remains committed to helping every family in need through Operation Haylift 2026.