CITGO's Commitment to Alleviating Hunger
In response to the growing issue of food insecurity in the United States, CITGO Petroleum Corporation has taken a staunch stand by donating $90,000 to various organizations dedicated to combating hunger during the critical period of Hunger Action Month. These substantial contributions aim to translate into thousands of meals, food rescue operations, and community outreach projects, impacting the lives of those navigating difficult circumstances throughout the year.
CITGO's Vice President of Human Resources and Support Services, Kresha Sivinski, emphasized the commitment to community welfare, stating, "Caring for our communities means making sure no one has to face hunger alone." The philosophy behind these partnerships is to not only provide access to nourishing meals but also to instill a sense of stability and hope in families facing food insecurity.
Breakdown of Contributions
The $90,000 is distributed among several crucial organizations:
- - Coastal Bend Food Bank (Corpus Christi, Texas): The organization will receive a significant $35,000 aimed at providing 140,000 meals to children, low-income families, and seniors across eleven counties. As the need for hunger relief grows, especially due to the challenging economic landscape, this donation serves as an essential lifeline for nearly 20% of their newfound clients.
- - Northern Illinois Food Bank (Lemont, Ill.): With a contribution of $25,000, CITGO supports Northern Illinois Food Bank's mission to deliver nutritious food and resources equitably. This donation will assist in the distribution of millions of meals across thirteen counties, catering to an average of 570,000 people per month.
- - Second Servings of Houston (Houston, Texas): This organization focuses on rescuing surplus food otherwise destined for landfills. CITGO's $15,000 grant aims to fuel their refrigerated fleet for eight months, recovering more than 2.3 million pounds of food valued at $16 million, which will reach around 170,000 individuals and families in the Houston area - where food insecurity rates are alarmingly three times the national average.
- - Sulphur Christian Community Coalition (Lake Charles, La.): The remaining $15,000 supports the coalition's Hope at Home initiative, providing weekly meal kits with fresh ingredients and recipe cards to strengthen family bonds and neighborhood ties. This program ensures consistent access to healthy meals and fosters community engagement.
Importance of Community Support
CITGO's initiative exemplifies its commitment to strengthening communities and providing essential support for those in need. The partnerships formed through these donations aim not only to alleviate immediate hunger but also to create lasting impact for individuals and families facing various challenges. The outreach and collaborative efforts reflect a broader mission that aligns corporate responsibility with crucial societal needs.
Addressing hunger in America is a shared responsibility, and CITGO's proactive approach showcases how businesses can play an integral role in social welfare. Through thoughtful donations and community partnerships, CITGO is working diligently to ensure that no one has to face hunger alone.
For more information on CITGO's community engagements and other initiatives, visit their dedicated responsibility page. As they continue their mission, CITGO hopes to inspire others within the corporate sector to take similar steps towards making a positive difference in the lives of those less fortunate.