On January 20, 2026, a devastating fire destroyed the Letsch family barn in Dallas, Oregon, burning it completely to the ground. Inside the barn were animals that represented years of care and careful breeding, including Boer goat does and their kids, yearling does, the buck, as well as three crossbred breeding ewes that were due to lamb within days, the ram, and their loyal livestock guardian dog. In a single night, decades of work, investment, and daily commitment were lost.

For more than 20 years, Lee has raised her family alongside her livestock, building a program rooted in strong animal stewardship and community. Her animals have supported youth through 4-H and FFA projects, helping young people learn responsibility, care for livestock, and experience the life-changing opportunities that come from agricultural education. The loss of the barn and animals is not just a personal tragedy, but a loss felt by the many students and community members who have been touched by Lee’s dedication.

In the weeks following the fire, the family took time to allow the smoke to clear, the site to be assessed, and to work closely with insurance to understand what would be covered. While insurance will help, current estimates indicate it will cover only a portion of the total loss. The cost to rebuild the barn and replace essential infrastructure and materials is significant, and the animals lost in the fire are minimally covered by insurance. Many friends, neighbors, and members of the agricultural and FFA community have already reached out asking how they can help. This page is our answer.

Funds raised will help rebuild the barn and essential infrastructure, replace critical materials and equipment, begin restoring the livestock program, and support the family as they work to rebuild and continue serving youth through 4-H and FFA. The family is already taking steps forward, organizing a community work party to begin clearing debris so construction can move forward, with a goal of starting the rebuild in Spring 2026. Lee and her family are deeply grateful for the support they have already received and are committed to rebuilding—not only for their family, but for the students and community who have been part of their program for more than two decades.

If you are unable to give, sharing this page is another meaningful way to support the rebuilding effort. The outpouring of support has already been incredible. If you are able to assist with materials, equipment, livestock, services, or other in-kind support, please contact Lee Letsch. Thank you for standing with Lee and her family and for being part of a community that shows up when it matters most.