Pilots for Christ, a Monroeville-based nonprofit that provides free air transportation for patients in need, is turning to the community for support this September.

The group announced its “Be Our Co-Pilot” campaign to help cover costs as its primary aircraft undergoes mandatory maintenance expected to cost about $50,000 according to a news release. During the two-week downtime, the organization anticipates spending another $15,000 to $30,000 on alternative transportation to ensure patients don’t miss essential care.

“For over thirty years, God has provided for the ministry, and again this year we will fly over 800 mission flights,” said Pilots for Christ founder Tommy Lee in the release. “This maintenance period will increase our expenses, not only for the maintenance, but also as we seek to continue to serve our patients through alternative transportation. Please join us as a prayer partner as we ask our great God to provide for these extra expenses. With God’s blessing and your support, PFC will continue to serve families in their greatest time of need.”

Coinciding with the fundraiser, thousands of sunflowers will bloom Labor Day weekend at Sirmon Farms in Daphne, where the annual “Sirmon Sunnies” Sunflower Project will again open to the public. In the middle of the field, sunflowers will spell out the letters PFC in golden petals. Visitors can walk through the fields, take photos and pick sunflowers free of charge. Donation boxes will be set up throughout the farm, with every dollar going directly to Pilots for Christ.

Sunflowers will be available beginning Friday, Aug. 29, and picking will continue until the flowers are gone. Last year, the project raised more than $5,000. This year, organizers hope to surpass that total.

“Sunflowers are a beautiful reminder of hope, and this project is our way of giving back to a ministry that has touched so many lives,” said James Sirmon, a longtime supporter and volunteer.

The sunflower fields are located at 25359 County Road 54 East in Daphne and will remain open for a limited time. Donations to the “Be Our Co-Pilot” campaign may also be made online at www.PilotsForChrist.net.