The supply room at Harvest Baptist Church.

HARVEST, Ala. — The deadly tornadoes that bulldozed their way across Northern Alabama at the end of April left a trail of destruction in their wake, taking the lives of hundreds and displacing thousands from their homes. In the aftermath of the disaster, however, many community members have rallied together to help those in need in any way possible.

One such relief effort was spearheaded in part by Robby Robinson, president of CertiPro Pest Solutions in Harvest, Ala.  The 13-year veteran of the pest management industry helped to set up an activity center at Harvest Baptist Church, where local residents could come for meals, clothing, and general support.  “The tornado traveled almost 100 miles on the ground, and Harvest is located right in the center of its path,” said Robinson.  “We wanted to do whatever we could to help the community, even if it’s just our time and energy that we’re providing.”

Harvest Baptist Church became a food pantry and source of daily meals for victims, first responders, utility crews and volunteers alike.  With power lines down and no electricity, it became necessary to open the church’s doors to provide ventilation.  “We realized after a day that we had a major fly problem,” commented Robinson, “and we needed a product that could manage the situation quickly.”

Robinson contacted several companies asking for assistance, one of which was the Environmental Science division of Bayer CropScience LP.  Key Accounts Manager Walt Weinwurm fielded Robinson’s request and was able to facilitate the shipment of a case of 5-pound containers of Bayer’s Maxforce Granular Fly Bait. 

“When we heard about Robby’s efforts, we acted right away,” Weinwurm said.  “Our granular fly bait is a ready-to-use formulation for outdoor application that begins to kill flies in 60 seconds or less.  Given the urgency of this situation, it’s important to control flies before they have the chance to enter the church, and Maxforce Granular Fly Bait has that ability.”

“We’re very grateful,” Robinson noted. “We’re still feeding people every day, and Bayer’s product donation will definitely help to mitigate the church’s fly problem.” 

If you wish to help with local relief efforts, donations can be made to Harvest Baptist Church and sent to
8999 Wall Triana Highway, Harvest, AL 35749.  Robinson and CertiPro Pest Solutions can be reached at 256/726-8500.

For more information on Bayer products, visit www.BackedbyBayer.com, or contact your local Bayer field sales representative, Bayer authorized distributor or Bayer Customer Service at 1-800-331-2867.