Smithfield and UFCW join forces after Hurricane Sandy

As part of the Smithfield and UFCW Feeding the Hungry initiative, seven Smithfield trucks, each carrying more than 40,000 pounds of protein, will depart for seven food banks located in New York, New Jersey and Connecticut. With the help of Feeding America, a nationwide network of more than 200 food banks and food-rescue organisations, those food banks in the storm-affected area with the highest need will receive the shipments. The donation will mostly consist of ready-to-eat protein, including hot dogs and lunchmeats.

“All across the country, UFCW members are on the front lines of efforts to improve and strengthen their communities, and this major donation in the wake of Hurricane Sandy reflects their unwavering commitment to protect and advocate for families during tough times” said Joe Hansen, International President, UFCW Union.

“Feeding America is extremely grateful to Smithfield and the UFCW for this generous donation of lunch meat, hot dogs and hams, which is urgently needed by our member food banks on the East Coast that are providing emergency meals to thousands of people who have been affected by Hurricane Sandy,” said Matt Knott, interim president and CEO of Feeding America.

Smithfield Foods and its independent operating companies have a long history of stocking food banks, supporting after-school nutrition programmes and providing food relief in the wake of natural disasters. In January 2008, Smithfield established their Helping Hungry Homes initiatives to help ensure that American families in need do not go hungry.