(ROCKWALL, TX – April 17, 2020) The Rockwall Youth Fair Livestock Show has been a treasured annual event since it was founded by Odis Lowe in 1953. When like many other events, the Rockwall Youth Fair was cancelled because of COVID-19, 4-H and FFA members from across the county had to make a decision on what to do with the market animals that no longer had a sale to go to.
At this point, everyone was aware that most animals would be able to be sold although at a price well below the investment cost, which includes purchase price, supplies and feeding.
One 4-H member, Olivia Trammel, had a different idea – an idea that would provide her no financial reward, only a big heart-warming reward.
Olivia’s mom April works for Beacon Harbor Healthcare and Rehabilitation in Rowlett and Olivia asked if she could donate her rabbits to the nursing home. After discussion – because the nursing home employees would now be responsible for feeding and daily care of the animals – permission was granted.
The rabbits were brought to the home and introduced to their big new family. Olivia’s mom tells us, “This has been such a blessing because the nursing home cannot have visitors. The residents are missing their family and these rabbits are adding some cheer to their days.”
Olivia is a 4th grader at Billie Stevenson Elementary School and is involved in the dog and rabbit projects. This is her second year in 4-H and she was named 2019 Rookie of the Year for the Ultimate Pawsibilities Dog Club.
How You Can Help the Youth Fair Students
Rockwall Youth Fair has set up a fund that will be divided amongst youth like Olivia affected by the show cancellation to help them purchase animals for next year. Tax deductible donations can be made payable to “Youth Fair of Rockwall” and mailed to P.O. Box 1441, Rockwall, TX 75087. Please put general donation in the memo line. Call 972-204-7660 for any questions or to arrange a donation pickup – in a socially distant manner, of course. Donations will be accepted until April 30.
Story and photos submitted for publication in Blue Ribbon News by Shelly Spearman, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, Rockwall County Road & Bridge.
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