Tyson Foods commits $13 million to COVID-19 hunger relief

Springdale-based Tyson Foods is committing $13 million to support critical needs in local communities in the company’s operations footprint in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The investment includes $2 million in community grants and more than $11 million worth of products donated by the company since March 11. The food donations are four million pounds of protein that support hunger relief programs, as well as meal boxes for company drivers who difficulty accessing food while on the road.

“Our company is proud to play a critical role in feeding the nation during this challenging time, and we recognize the importance of supporting our team members, their families and our plant communities,” Tyson Foods CEO Noel White said in a statement. “The purpose of this special fund is to provide help where it’s needed most.”

Tyson Foods has created a Community Response Fund that will distribute grants and food donations to non-profit organizations working to help people in Tyson Foods’ plant communities across the U.S. Community grants will be awarded by invitation only.

Grants will be allocated in Tyson Foods plant communities for nonprofit organizations to help support employees and the local community. Investments will be focused on nonprofit partners providing emergency response efforts such as rent and utility assistance, food distribution, healthcare, childcare, small business support and other economic recovery services.

The company is giving $500,000 to its helping hands fund, which offers financial assistance to employees following disaster or personal hardship.