SPRINGDALE, ARK. — Tyson Foods Inc. pledged $13 million to support critical needs in local communities where the company operates in response to the coronavirus (COVID-19). The poultry producer said it will invest $2 million in community grants and has already donated more than $11 million worth of products since March 11.
Tyson’s Community Response Fund will distribute grants and food donations to non-profit organizations working to help people near company facilities. US community grants will be awarded by invitation only.
“Our company is proud to play a critical role in feeding the nation during this challenging time, and we recognize the importance of supporting our team members, their families and our plant communities,” said Noel White, chief executive officer of Tyson Foods. “The purpose of this special fund is to provide help where it’s needed most.”
The grants will focus on non-profit partners providing emergency response efforts including rent and utility assistance, food distribution, health care, childcare, small business support and other economic recovery services.
Tyson added $500,000 to its Helping Hands program, which offers financial assistance to team members following a disaster or personal hardship.
The company said it donated 4 million lbs of protein, worth $11 million, since early March to fight the expanded hunger relief efforts around the country.
Tyson listed the following projects while COVID-19 continues across the United States:
- Product donations to the Tyson Community Pantry Program for local solutions to hunger.
- Summer product donations to ensure the most vulnerable have access to food during summer break.
- Meal boxes to Tyson drivers who may have difficulty accessing food while on the road.
- Semi-trailers with approximately 35,000 lbs of product deployed to Tyson plant locations for hourly team members and the community.
