Midwest Heritage, a subsidiary of Hy-Vee, Inc., announces a new program to help youth get a start in the cattle industry.

The goal of the Midwest Heritage Youth Heifer Program is to help future young farmers gain interest and knowledge of the beef cattle industry by awarding bred heifers to program recipients. Winners will be chosen based on merit, future goals and their ability to care for the heifers.

In the inaugural year of the program, Midwest Heritage will grant up to four 7th and 8th graders, three bred heifers each. The program will span five years.  During this time, recipients are responsible for management of the herd including daily care, records and breeding. At the conclusion of the five years, recipients are responsible for paying back the market value of the three bred heifers.

“This is an excellent opportunity for youth to increase their knowledge of agriculture,” said Tony Kaska, Midwest Heritage CEO & President. “By the end of the program these students will have established a foundation herd and gained financial self-sufficiency. This will be an incredible advantage as they begin their careers in agriculture.”

Students from Lucas, Wayne, Warren and Madison County are invited to apply.