Weis, Smithfield Help Hungry Homes
Weis Markets is providing a cash donation for its role in a partnership with Smithfield and the Food Network’s Paula Deen to deliver 100,000 servings of much-needed protein to the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank.
“With many families struggling, more people than ever before are seeking food assistance,” said Central Pennsylvania Food Bank Executive Director Kendall Hanna. “The incredible donation by Smithfield of high-quality, high-protein product, plus Weis Markets’ generous Fight Hunger donation, will make a real difference to thousands of families in the weeks ahead.”
Weis is a longstanding retail partner of Smithfield and food bank supporter. “Weis Markets is pleased to partner with Smithfield and Paula Deen to cap off our month-long Fight Hunger campaign with an additional $62,000 donation,” said David J. Hepfinger, Weis president and CEO. “Our Fight Hunger program benefits local food banks and emergency food providers in five states. "The Central Pennsylvania Food Bank is one of our most important partners. Between our donation and the 100,000 servings of protein provided by Smithfield, this event will benefit thousands of families in central and north-central Pennsylvania.”
Smithfield’s donation is a continuation of its “Helping Hungry Homes” initiative to help feed families in our nation who are food insecure. Smithfield Foods and its independent operating companies have a long history of stocking food banks, supporting after-school nutrition programs and providing food relief in the wake of natural disasters.
“Smithfield is proud to continue the second year of our hunger relief tour. We’re well on our way to feeding 20 million people,” said Dennis Pittman, Smithfield public affairs director. “We hope to continue increasing awareness and encourage individuals and companies to donate to their local food banks.”
The Central Pennsylvania Food Bank is a non-profit organization that works with more than 600 program partners to provide food to nearly 40,000 people in need every week.
Founded in 1912, Weis Markets operates 162 stores in its home state of Pennsylvania and in Maryland, New York, New Jersey and West Virginia.
IN THE PHOTO (from left): Paula Deen; her husband, Michael Groover; Weis Markets President and CEO David J. Hepfinger; Kendall Hanna, Central Pennsylvania Food Bank executive director; Weis Markets Senior VP Kurt Schertle; and Weis Director of Meat John Grimes.
