Prior to the onset of the COVID-19 crisis, more than 1.5 million Pennsylvanians were at risk of hunger on a regular basis, including nearly a half million children. As pandemic related school and business closures occurred in recent weeks, an entirely new group of residents have found themselves suddenly in need of food assistance. New unemployment claims have surpassed 800,000 in Pennsylvania with many now relying on the charitable food system for support.

This week, the Pennsylvania Pork Producers Council, the Pennsylvania Pork Strategic Investment Program, and industry partners teamed up to provide almost 90,000 pounds of protein to Feeding Pennsylvania in an effort to offer much needed assistance to in-need neighbors throughout the state. The pork, including a variety of cuts such as tenderloin, chops, bacon, sausage and more will be distributed statewide to Feeding Pennsylvania's nine member food banks that aim to provide hunger relief to communities in all 67 of the state’s counties.

"Giving back to our communities is an important part of what we do as pig farmers," says Melissa Boess, chair of the Pennsylvania Pork Strategic Investment Program. "We're hopeful that offering a meal to our neighbors in need will bring comfort to those facing food insecurity during these uncertain times."

One in eight Pennsylvanians regularly experiences food insecurity under normal circumstances. "We've seen an alarming rise in need as a result of economic instability caused by COVID-19. As we see the need for essentials, including food, dramatically increasing, we're grateful for friends like Pennsylvania’s pig farmers and their generous contribution," says Jane Clements-Smith, executive director of Feeding Pennsylvania. "This donation will further support our work to ensure that no one in Pennsylvania goes without access to safe and nourishing food throughout the pandemic response efforts."

Pennsylvania Pork Producers Council President Jason Manbeck echoed this sentiment. "We know that many of our neighbors are in need of extra help right now and this donation highlights the commitment from our industry to support our communities. Working with industry partners to make this significant contribution helps to share our passion as pig farmers to deliver the safest, highest quality pork possible, while also ensuring those at risk of hunger find relief during these challenging days. Joining together to fight hunger now, and always, is a top priority for our industry."

The pork donated was proudly produced in Pennsylvania and will provide 360,000 servings of protein to families across the state.

This effort shines a light on the ethical principles embodied by the industry's We Care commitment to their animals, their farms, a safe food supply, their people, their communities and the environment. As good neighbors and responsible citizens, Pennsylvania's pig farmers are dedicated to giving back and helping to build up the communities they call home, while delivering the safest, highest quality pork possible using sustainable practices that are good for the animals and good for the environment.

Source: Pennsylvania Pork Producers Council, which is solely responsible for the information provided, and wholly owns the information. Informa Business Media and all its subsidiaries are not responsible for any of the content contained in this information asset.