On November 8, 2024, the 7th Annual Farmers Feeding the Flock Harvest Day Celebration took place, bringing together civil servants, donors, and generous supporters for an evening of gratitude and reflection. This year’s event held special meaning as it paid tribute to two remarkable individuals: Mr. Bob Brewsaugh and Mr. Merrill Smith. While the event was a joyful celebration, the absence of Merrill Smith was deeply felt by all in attendance.
The Brewsaugh family made a significant contribution to this year’s Feeding the Flock Fundraiser by donating 20 acres of farmland in honor of their father, Bob Brewsaugh. Their gesture continues to carry forward his legacy of giving back to the community, making the event not only a successful fundraiser but also a heartfelt tribute to his memory.
The Greensburg Bread of Life provided a wonderful meal that was served by FFA members. The menu included the dessert being “The Best Pumpkin Brownies.” I will attest that they absolutely were the best pumpkin brownies.
One of the most touching moments of the 7th Annual Farmers Feeding the Flock Harvest Day Celebration came when WTRE radio played a clip from April 27, 2024, capturing a special memory. On planting day, Merrill Smith called into the station and spoke live with Sandy Biddenger from the cab of the tractor. Sadly, Merrill passed away just weeks later on May 22, 2024. While he wasn’t physically present at the event, his spirit was felt by everyone in attendance.
Merrill, a dedicated Bread of Life Board Member for 10 years, volunteered in countless ways to support the organization. Executive Director Melissa Foist shared a touching story about how one of Merrill’s baseball caps was recently found in a locker. It now hangs proudly in the Bread of Life office, a small but meaningful reminder of his lasting impact.
Melissa also explained how vital the funds raised from this event are to the Bread of Life’s mission. Every dollar goes directly into their operating budget, allowing them to continue serving the community. With a small but dedicated team of 6 part-time staff, 1 full-time staff member, and 400 volunteers each year, the Bread of Life serves 250-300 meals on any given service day. Melissa, who has poured her heart into the organization, noted that it takes 25 volunteers and 7 staff members to make it all happen, demonstrating the incredible effort and community spirit behind their work.
Harvest day for the project was September 14, 2024, which included 5,028 bushels. The Brewsaugh Family donated a total of $22,625.07 to the Bread of Life. The Bread of Life expanded this fundraiser to include sponsors which someone could be a one acre, two acre, or multiple acre sponsor. With the Brewsaugh Families donation and the sponsors donation the 2024 Feeders Feeding the Flock fundraiser netted $66,385.59. During the 7 years (2018-2024) of the fundraiser they have successfully raised $365.630.50.
The evening included a tribute video to Merrill Smith which included FFA students speaking on how Merrill touched their lives. That video is available by clicking this link: Merrill Smith FFA Tribute Video.
