$25,000 donation made to support impacted area
OMAHA, NEB. (August 14, 2026) Strong rural communities are essential to the future of agriculture. As communities across central South Dakota continue recovering from the devastating June storms, Farm Credit Services of America (FCSAmerica) is supporting those efforts with a $25,000 donation to the Highmore Area Foundation Recovery Efforts Fund through the South Dakota Community Foundation.
The storm brought destructive straight-line winds and large hail across the region. According to reports, wind gusts reached as high as 131 mph near Highmore, with extensive damage also reported in areas including Ree Heights and Joe Creek Recreation Area. The event caused significant impacts to homes, businesses, farms, community facilities and infrastructure throughout the area.
"Our mission extends beyond financing agriculture to supporting the rural communities where our customers, employees and neighbors live and work," said Jason Edleman, senior vice president, lending for FCSAmerica. "The damage caused by these storms has deeply affected the Highmore area, and we hope this support helps local recovery efforts as the community rebuilds."
Contributions to the Highmore Area Foundation Recovery Efforts Fund will support local recovery needs identified by community leaders and partners. Individuals interested in supporting ongoing recovery efforts can learn more or contribute through the South Dakota Community Foundation here.
In addition, nonprofit and community organizations impacted by the storm may be eligible for assistance through the Working Here Fund Grant Program. Applications for grants of up to $5,000 are due September 30, with additional grant opportunities available through the program's December 31 application cycle.
