The Michigan Pork Producers Association (MPPA) stepped up to join the National Pork Producers Council's "Give-a-Ham" challenge, a national social media campaign encouraging hog farmers and those involved in the industry to donate pork to organizations serving the food insecure, and challenging others to follow suit. MPPA partnered with the Michigan Agribusiness Association and Michigan Soybean Committee to collect hams and financial support to donate to the Greater Lansing Food Bank.

Through donations made from many Michigan agricultural industry members, more than $1,800 and 250 pounds of ham were donated to the Greater Lansing Food Bank this holiday season.
 
"With so many Americans' struggling with financial challenges following the COVID pandemic, this year's 'Give-a-Ham' challenge takes on special meaning," says Mary Kelpinski, Michigan Pork Producers Association CEO. "Giving back to our communities is a core value of hog farmers nationwide; it's gratifying to come together as an industry this time of year to serve those in need."
 
Throughout the COVID pandemic, U.S. hog farmers and numerous state associations that represent them have donated to local food banks, providing more than 15 million pounds — or 220 million servings — of pork.
 
"I'm proud to be part of an industry that has already made significant contributions this year to help those less fortunate and am proud to participate in the 'Give-a-Ham' challenge, paying it forward with pork," Kelpinski says.