AUSTIN, Texas, June 24, 2015 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- In the wake of the devastation caused by recent historic floods in Texas, the Capital Area Food Bank, whose mission is to create access to good, healthy food for people in every community, continues to organize disaster-relief efforts in Austin, TX, and has an ongoing need for donations.
As a contribution to these enduring relief efforts, Smithfield is bringing a 25,000-pound protein donation to the Capital Area Food Bank in Austin. H-E-B, a longstanding Smithfield retailer and dedicated supporter of the food bank and its community, is partnering with Smithfield to bring this protein to the affected areas.
"Our communities are invested in an immediate and long-term recovery and rebuilding stage. These generous donations from Smithfield and H-E-B could not be more well-timed, as the Capital Area Food Bank prepares for the sustained food distribution that is needed by those afflicted by the devastation," said Hank Perret, President and CEO of the Capital Area Food Bank. "Protein product is one of the most requested and expensive food items for our clients, yet, nutritionally, it is invaluable. These contributions from Smithfield and H-E-B will help close this gap and make a lasting impact on the Capital Area Food Bank's response to this unprecedented challenge."
"Providing aid in times of disaster is the cornerstone of H-E-B's Helping Here philosophy, which promises to stand by communities during times of need," said Leslie Sweet, H-E-B's Director of Public Affairs in Central Texas. "For the past month, H-E-B has worked closely with first responders to provide disaster relief for flood victims, many of whom are our loyal customers. The recovery effort will take months, so it's important to continue to support local food banks like the Capital Area Food Bank that are helping feed families still reeling from this disaster."
"Cleaning and rebuilding communities after natural disasters takes a very long time. When we heard reports of how devastating these floods were, we immediately orchestrated this truckload of protein to support the ongoing aid efforts in the affected areas," said Dennis Pittman, Senior Director of Corporate Communications and Public Affairs for Smithfield. "We commend all of the companies who have made contributions and, especially, the first responders and individuals who have tirelessly volunteered their time and resources to lend a hand to their local communities and neighbors in need."
To learn how you can contribute to the Capital Area Food Bank, please visit www.capitalareafoodbank.org.
About the Capital Area Food Bank
The Capital Area Food Bank is the largest hunger relief organization in the Washington metro area serving over 530,000 people through direct food distribution programs and a network of 500 partner agencies. Last year, the Capital Area Food Bank distributed 42 million pounds of food – the equivalent of 35 million meals – one-third of which was fresh fruits and vegetables. The CAFB's Lorton location last year distributed over 6 million pounds food – the equivalent of 5 million meals – of which 2 million pounds was fresh fruits and vegetables. To learn more, visit: www.capitalareafoodbank.org, or find the Capital Area Food Bank on Facebook at facebook.com/CapitalAreaFoodBank, and Twitter at @foodbankmetrodc.
About H-E-B
H-E-B, with sales of more than $19.4 billion, operates more than 350 stores in Texas and Mexico. Known for its innovation and community service, H-E-B celebrated its 105th anniversary in 2010. Recognized for its fresh food, quality products, convenient services, and a commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainability, H-E-B strives to provide the best customer experience at everyday low prices. Based in San Antonio, H-E-B employs more than 80,000 Partners and serves millions of customers in more than 150 communities.
About Smithfield Foods
Smithfield Foods is a $15 billion global food company and the world's largest pork processor and hog producer. In the United States, the company is also the leader in numerous packaged meats categories with popular brands including Smithfield®, Eckrich®, Farmland®, Armour®, Cook's®, John Morrell®, Gwaltney®, Nathan's Famous®, Kretschmar®, Margherita®, Curly's®, Carando® and Healthy Ones®. Smithfield Foods is committed to providing good food in a responsible way and maintains robust animal care, community involvement, employee safety, environmental and food safety and quality programs. For more information, visit www.smithfieldfoods.com and www.smithfieldcommitments.com.