Shows of support keep coming for the Simmelink family, whose dairy barn collapsed last month near Rocky Mountain House.
Immediately after the barn’s roof caved in from the weight of snow, neighbours and other dairy farmers pitched in to help.
More than 80 cows and calves that survived the accident were moved to other dairy operations and will remain there for months while the Simmelink family continues to clean up and determines whether they can rebuild.
David Simmelink said people are still dropping by to offer help and now a benefit concert has been organized for Friday to raise money for the family, which has run its dairy farm north of Rocky Mountain House for about three decades.
A trust account has also been set up at the Rocky Credit Union.
Simmelink was not expecting a gesture like the benefit concert.
“I was kind of surprised really. They just phoned up one day and said we’re going to do a benefit for you.”
A steady stream of people have been dropping by to see if there is anything they can do to help. Some are even donating money.
“It’s kind of amazing,” he said.
Meanwhile, the family has been working to see where they go from here.
“We’re still busy cleaning up. We’re just planning for the future and see what we’re going to do and pricing about rebuilding.
“That’s sort of the phase we’re in right now, planning.
“We’re actually doing pretty good. Some of the stress is off now.”
The concert will take place at the Leslieville Hall beginning at 6 p.m. There will be beef on a bun and desserts, and silent and live auctions.
Six Track, Susanna Heystek and the Terspmas have been lined up to perform.
For more information or to make a donation call 403-845-7879.
pcowley@www.reddeeradvocate.com