The largest mutual aid deployment in Kentucky electric cooperative history was boosted by crews from Farmers RECC who responded to the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene in late September and October.

At the height of the mutual aid response, more than 250 personnel from 19 Kentucky co-ops were working in Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina. In addition, more than 100 Kentucky co-op contractors also responded to the calls for help. 

Ten line workers from Farmers RECC deployed on September 28 to assist Licking Valley Rural Electric, Clark Energy, Grayson Rural Electric, Blue Grass Energy, and Fleming-Mason Energy in Kentucky. 

"One of the tenets of the cooperative business model is 'Cooperation Among Cooperatives'" says Caralyne Pennington, Director of Member and Public Communication at Farmers RECC. "Nowhere is that more evident than in a disaster relief scenario. We are proud to assist cooperatives impacted by Hurricane Helene."

Helene knocked our electric service to an estimated 1.25 million co-op members in the southeastern U.S, including 100,000 co-op members in Kentucky. Many of the crews who helped in other states responded first to mutual aid request within Kentucky.

"Since the beginning of 2023, Farmers RECC has experienced three major storm, relying on mutual aid to fully restore service to our members", says Pennington. "We are honored to provide that same support to our sister cooperatives during their time of need."

The top priority of Farmers RECC is service to our members. Before committing resources to mutual aid requests, we ensure we have ample crews available for all local needs, including routine maintenance and emergencies.