Addressing the Egg Shortage with Rent-the-Chicken’s Egg-Laying Hens
Amidst the nationwide egg shortage and skyrocketing prices, Rent The Chicken, a Pennsylvania-based business, offers an innovative solution: renting egg-laying hens for long-term food security.
Soaring Demand for Chickens
Jenn Tompkins, co-founder of Rent The Chicken, has witnessed a surge in inquiries as consumers struggle to find eggs in grocery stores or face exorbitant prices. However, many are driven not just by an immediate need for eggs but also by a desire for self-sufficiency and sustainable food sources.
Rent The Chicken partners with farmers across the U.S. and Canada to provide customers with egg-laying hens and the necessary supplies. Their rental packages include two hens, a portable coop, feed, food and water dishes, and expert support for a six-month contract. The rental cost starts around $500, with an option to buy the chickens at the end of the contract or return them.
Extended Delivery Timeframe
It’s important to note that renting chickens is not an immediate solution to the egg shortage. The chickens available for renting are fall-hatched and will start laying eggs in the spring. "We’re not an instant fix, but we’re here to help people," Tompkins emphasized.
Rent The Chicken’s mission is not to compete with egg producers but to address food insecurity and provide access to fresh, backyard eggs. The company believes that raising chickens can empower individuals and communities to become more self-sufficient.
Legal and Community Considerations
Tompkins advises potential renters to research local ordinances and regulations governing backyard chickens. Homeowners’ associations may also have rules to consider. However, she believes that keeping two to four hens in a backyard is similar to growing a tomato plant, especially when using portable coops that minimize odors and noise.
Customer Experiences
Tyler Kochirka, a McKees Rocks, Pennsylvania resident, was initially hesitant about renting chickens but was won over by the experience. After renting two hens, he purchased four more and now has a total of ten. Kochirka’s family bypasses store-bought eggs and enjoys fresh eggs from their backyard.
Conclusion
Rent The Chicken offers a viable solution for consumers facing egg shortages and soaring prices. By providing access to egg-laying hens, the company empowers individuals and families to take control of their food supply and cultivate self-sufficient lifestyles. While renting chickens may not offer immediate relief from the current egg crisis, it can be a meaningful investment in long-term food security and the joy of backyard farming.
Additional Notes:
- Reservations for hens are now open, and the company recommends early booking due to limited availability.
- The cost of an out-of-area package is $1,550 for three hens, shipped anywhere in the U.S.
- More information and reservation details can be found on Rent The Chicken’s website.
- Consumers are encouraged to research local regulations regarding backyard chickens before making a decision.
