KOSSUTH COUNTY – Congressional candidate Christian Schlaefer joined Josh Johansen, pastor of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Lakota, to personally deliver hot meals to farmers working long hours in the fields this harvest season. Christian serves as a guest pastor at St. Paul Lutheran and Bethany Evangelical Reformed Churches.
“As I go farm to farm, I am reminded of the incredible work ethic that built our nation and continues to make our rural communities strong,” Schlaefer said. “Farmers put in tireless hours to feed America and a few hours delivering meals is one way we can show our appreciation.”
The effort was part of the annual Food for Farmers initiative to support local farmers during harvest time. With many farmers working from sunup to sundown, taking time away from the fields is difficult, making a delivered meal both practical and meaningful. Christian and the team prayed with many of the farmers for their health, safety, and a plentiful harvest.
One farmer, whose family farm received the 2025 Century Farm recognition, told the team: “It’s not just about the food. The social interaction is just as important. It’s nice to get off the combine for a minute and see some of the faces from town.”
Schlaefer emphasized that supporting agriculture is central to his vision for Iowa’s 4th Congressional District: “As a farmer myself, I know that talk alone doesn’t cut it. This is what defending rural values looks like in practice – faith, service, and gratitude toward the men and women who keep our fields productive and our families fed.”
Schlaefer expressed hope that the Food for Farmers initiative will expand across Iowa, ensuring more farmers feel the appreciation and support of their communities.