Indiana Pork and Indiana Beef donate State Fair food to support flood-ravaged communities

Wednesday, August 26, 2026 at 2:57 PM

By Staff report

Indiana Pork and Indiana Beef joined forces to help Hoosiers recovering from devastating flooding across central Indiana by donating food left following the Indiana State Fair to the Smoking Pastor Project.

The two agricultural organizations donated boneless pork chops, pork burgers, and hot dogs that will be used by the Smoking Pastor Project to prepare and serve meals in communities impacted by recent flooding.

“After the State Fair, we knew we had an opportunity to put this food to good use and help families who are facing an incredibly difficult time,” said Jeanette Merritt, Director of Communications for Indiana Pork. “Indiana’s farmers have a long history of stepping up when their neighbors need them, and we’re grateful the Smoking Pastor Project can turn these pork and beef products into hot meals for people who need them right now.”

Brian Shuter, Executive Director of Indiana Beef, said the partnership is a natural extension of the commitment Indiana’s livestock farmers have to their neighbors and communities.

“Indiana’s beef and pork producers are deeply rooted in the communities they serve, and when our fellow Hoosiers are facing difficult circumstances, we want to help,” Shuter said. “We’re proud to partner with Indiana Pork and the Smoking Pastor Project to make sure this food is put to good use providing meals and support to families and volunteers in the affected communities.”

The Smoking Pastor Project responds to communities in times of need by using barbecue and food to provide meals, encouragement, and support. Following the flooding in central Indiana, the organization has been working to feed residents, volunteers, first responders, and others involved in recovery efforts.

By combining resources, Indiana Pork and Indiana Beef were able to make sure quality food remaining after the State Fair went directly toward helping fellow Hoosiers.

Chef Jordan Davis, founder of Smoking Pastor Project, said the donation helps them stretch their outreach even further. "We are paying for everything that we serve the public. So getting donations like these allow us to feed more people who have been struck by the floods."