CLEVELAND — Cleveland-based Lincoln Electric has partnered with the Future Farmers of America to assist in recovery efforts in the aftermath of Katrina. The company is donating engine-driven welders/generators for emergency power backup through the FFA chapters to schools in the three stricken Gulf States.

The company is also responding to increased demand in supplying its industrial, rental and retail distributors and customers with product to help their communities.

“The recovery effort will take time, and I want to assure all of our business partners that Lincoln Electric will provide a steady and increased supply of product to help them operate, and in some cases, rebuild,” said John Stropki, chairman and CEO of Lincoln Electric.