MONTREAL, Sept. 29, 2026 /CNW/ -- A $5,000 donation from Lallemand Plant Care will help support a community emergency shelter project at the Villa Marie Assisted Living Facility in Macklin, Sask., thanks to Darlene Kidd, Saskatchewan winner of the 2026 Hometown Roots Contest.

"The funds will help us raise money for a generator to provide a community shelter in case of an emergency. It's not just for the residents who live there, but for the entire community and rural countryside, including agricultural-based families," says Kidd.

The project is a community-wide effort, something Kidd says made her decision about where to direct the prize an easy one.

"The whole community is fundraising for this. It's a community-wide project, and I didn't even have to think about where the prize funds should go. It's the whole town pulling together to make this happen."

Kidd's winning photo reflects her family's connection to agriculture. A farmer's daughter, wife, and mother, Kidd continues to spend most days at the family farm.

"Humongous thank you to Lallemand for running such a wonderful incentive. The community thanks you, not just me."

"The Hometown Roots Contest is about celebrating the people who make rural communities special and helping them give back in meaningful ways. We're proud that Darlene's winning entry will help support a project that benefits the entire Macklin community," says Anne Favre, Strategic Marketing Director – USA & Canada, Lallemand Plant Care.

About the Hometown Roots Contest

Launched in 2021, Lallemand's Hometown Roots Contest celebrates the deep connection to agriculture and rural life within communities across Canada and the U.S. Since its launch, the contest has recognized 34 winners and donated a total of $170,000 to local organizations across North America.

The 2026 contest ran from January 26 to July 13, with one $5,000 donation awarded in each of Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba. Winners selected a local community organization or charity to receive the donation.

For more information, visit https://lallemandhometownroots.com.

About Lallemand
For over 100 years, Lallemand has been an expert in yeast and bacteria manufacturing. It is now a global leader in the development, production, and marketing of microorganisms for various industries. Using sound science and know-how, Lallemand Plant Care provides effective microbial-based solutions that deliver agronomic, economic, and sustainable value to growers. For more information, visit www.lallemand.com

SOURCE Lallemand Plant Care