ST. LOUIS — Three weeks ago the Equipment Dealers Foundation (EDF), in conjunction with the Equipment Dealers Assn. (EDA) and the Iowa-Nebraska Equipment Dealers Assn. (INEDA) put out a call to action, requesting donations to EDF’s Disaster Relief Fund. The appeal was in response to catastrophic flooding in Iowa and Nebraska that began in mid-March.

The response from equipment dealers, manufacturers and individuals was swift and impactful. Leading by example, President and CEO of INEDA, Andy Goodman, indicated that INEDA would match any donations made by their dealer members. EDF is excited to report that to date, it has collected nearly $90,000 (including INEDA’s match) for flood victims.

This success comes from donations of all sizes, with several large donations, both from individuals and businesses, making a big impact. EDF would like to recognize Plains Equipment Group in particular who coordinated a fundraising effort for John Deere dealers in Nebraska that raised $60,000 - $20,000 of which was donated to EDF’s Disaster Relief Fund. They also donated another $4,000 to EDF from contributions raised internally.

As grant applications from dealership employees in Iowa and Nebraska continue to roll in, EDF is incredibly grateful for the support of the industry but knows its work is not done. “We know that the people who have been affected by this terrible flooding are still assessing damage and so we anticipate many more applications for funds in the near future,” said Tom Nobbe, Chairman of EDF’s Board of Directors. “On behalf of the EDF Board, I urge anyone who can to make a donation, large or small, to the Disaster Relief Fund so we can provide as much support as possible for these folks.”

Disaster Relief Funds go directly to assist employees of equipment dealerships impacted by natural disasters. Donations can be made online or by completing this pledge card and mailing your check (made out to Equipment Dealers Foundation) to:

Equipment Dealers Foundation
165 N. Meramec Ave. Suite 430
St. Louis, MO 63105

EDF also accepts donations made via credit card over the phone. Please call the EDF office at 636.349.5000. For anyone seeking assistance as a result of the flooding, EDF is here to help! Please call for additional information or fill the Disaster Relief Application.