Quick service restaurant chain KFC has announced plans to send one million pieces of chicken to help their 4,000 U.S. locations support and feed local communities affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
"Seeing our franchisees coming together and helping their neighbors during this crisis has inspired us to do more," said Kevin Hochman, president, KFC U.S. in a statement.
"Many KFC restaurants across the U.S. are small, family-owned businesses, and while they are facing uncertainty, they continue to keep their restaurants open every day to feed our customers. During this unprecedented time, our franchisees are also helping make sure those in need are able to enjoy the comfort and familiarity of a hot meal."
Each franchisee can choose how they distribute the donated fried chicken to best benefit their local community, from hunger relief efforts, to first responders or even just as a way to give joy. One location in southern Indiana donated 1,000 meals to frontline healthcare workers. Another has delivered KFC meals to essential workers.
"During this crisis, we've experienced first-hand the power of our local communities and their heroes," said Thomas Broome, president of KFC franchise Scottish Food Systems, Inc. "I'm incredibly proud of the work the KFC family is doing, and this effort will help us do even more."
KFC also donated $400,000 to its existing charity partner, Blessings in a Backpack, which helps feed 100,000 children who have been affected by mandatory school closings across the U.S.
"We're all living in a time of uncertainty, but children shouldn't have to worry about where their next meal is coming from," Hochman said in the announcement. "We're proud to partner with an organization like Blessings in a Backpack who, like KFC, is focused on feeding America."
View our continuing coverage of the coronavirus/COVID-19 pandemic.
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