For Immediate Release: April 22, 2021
Tyson Foods Invests in Hunger Relief Programs Through Grant to United Way of the Midlands
United Way of the Midlands (UWM) is proud to announce it has been awarded a grant of $10,000 from Tyson Foods. The grant will support local food security programs that serve Pottawattamie County residents.
Prior to COVID-19, Pottawattamie County – and Council Bluffs zip codes specifically – had among the region’s highest poverty rates. Now, COVID-19 has impacted the physical, financial and mental health of thousands, leaving many more people struggling to meet their basic needs. In particular, demand for food supports has surged, as evidenced by calls to the UWM 211 Helpline and reports from UWM-funded programs.
For 98 years, UWM has brought together community partners to help our neighbors through crisis – whether those crises are personal or as widespread as COVID-19. By investing in UWM-funded food security programs, Tyson Foods is empowering local nonprofits to provide immediate food services and address root causes of food insecurity through case management and other supports.
“People struggling with food insecurity often face the choice of putting food on the table or paying for other basic needs such as utilities, medication or rent,” said Shawna Forsberg, President and CEO of UWM. “Thanks to Tyson Foods’ generous support, we can provide food and other supportive services to thousands of Pottawattamie County residents, meaning we can reduce food insecurity and improve stability for families in our area.”
Tyson Foods is committed to serving the communities where their employees live and work. “Hunger relief is a priority and we’re committed to addressing food insecurity,” said Shane Kolle, complex manager at Tyson Foods’ Council Bluffs plant. “We are honored to partner with United Way of the Midlands to provide more meals to more people during this difficult time.”
About United Way of the Midlands
United Way of the Midlands (UWM) has served the Omaha-Council Bluffs metro for 98 years. Guided by best practices and community input, it approaches poverty in a specific way – a “united” way. With the support of volunteers, community partners and donors, UWM invests donor dollars efficiently and effectively in our local community. These dollars fund basic needs, education and financial stability programs at local nonprofits, creating a circle of support for people in need. Please visit unitedwaymidlands.org for more information.
About Tyson Foods
Tyson Foods, Inc. (NYSE: TSN) is one of the world’s largest food companies and a recognized leader in protein. Founded in 1935 by John W. Tyson and grown under three generations of family leadership, the company has a broad portfolio of products and brands like Tyson®, Jimmy Dean®, Hillshire Farm®, Ball Park®, Wright®, Aidells®, ibp®, and State Fair®. Tyson Foods innovates continually to make protein more sustainable, tailor food for everywhere it’s available and raise the world’s expectations for how much good food can do. Headquartered in Springdale, Arkansas, the company has 139,000 team members. Through its Core Values, Tyson Foods strives to operate with integrity, create value for its shareholders, customers, communities and team members and serve as a steward of the animals, land and environment entrusted to it. Visit TYSONFOODS.COM to learn more.