In the wake of the recent devastating floods in Louisiana, Smithfield donated 25,000 pounds of protein last week to two food banks providing ongoing disaster relief, which equates to 100,000 servings. The donation, which will be split between the Food Bank of Central Louisiana and Food Bank of Northeast Louisiana, was made as part of Smithfield's Helping Hungry Homes program, the company's nationwide hunger-relief initiative.
"The Food Bank of Central Louisiana continues to work with our partners in local disaster-response agencies, local food pantries, and many other organizations. Disaster response has been a core part of our mission for 26 years, and we are dedicated to helping as many people as possible in the days and weeks to come," said Jayne Wright-Velez, executive director of the Food Bank of Central Louisiana. "We are so grateful for the support from donors like Smithfield who donated much-needed protein for those in need in our community. Donations like these make our work possible," continued Wright-Velez.
"So many in Northeast Louisiana are facing the extremely difficult task of rebuilding their homes and lives, and the last thing they need to worry about is having enough food to feed their families," said Jean Toth, Executive Director of the Food Bank of Northeast Louisiana. "This donation of protein makes a great addition to the groceries we are distributing to people living in the parishes that were declared a disaster. We are very thankful to Smithfield for their generosity."
"Cleaning and rebuilding communities after natural disasters takes substantial time and effort. When we heard reports of how devastating these floods were, we immediately orchestrated this truckload of protein to support the ongoing aid in the affected areas," said Dennis Pittman, Smithfield Senior Director of Corporate Communications and Public Affairs. "We commend all of the companies who have made contributions and, especially salute the food banks and first responders who have tirelessly provided time and resources to help their local communities and neighbors in need."
The Food Bank of Central Louisiana and Food Bank of Northeast Louisiana serve individuals and 104 member agencies in 12 parishes of Louisiana all working not only during this disaster but throughout the year to fight hunger.
To learn how you can contribute to Food Banks of Northeast & Central Louisiana, please visit www.fbnela.org and www.fbcenla.org.
