Hormel Foods Celebrates 15 Years of Community Empowerment
Hormel Foods, based in Austin, Minnesota, has recently celebrated 15 years of impactful involvement during Hunger Action Month by donating a staggering $332,000 to local hunger-relief organizations across the United States. This initiative reflects the company's deep commitment to the communities where its production facilities operate and represents a significant yearly contribution designed to combat food insecurity.
In a move that underscores the vital role of community support, Hormel Foods allocates $10,000 to each of its production sites. Employees are not just passive recipients of this initiative; they play a crucial role in deciding which local organizations will benefit from these donations. According to John Forsythe, the vice president of operations at Hormel Foods, engaging team members in the selection process creates a powerful connection between the company and the communities it serves. Forsythe, who has experience as a plant manager, noted, "When our team members help decide where their facility's donation goes, it's a powerful reminder that real change starts where we live, work and raise our families."
This year, Hormel Foods provided monetary contributions to 46 organizations nationwide, reinforcing the idea that genuine change begins close to home. For example, at the Burke Corporation in Nevada, Iowa, the team decided to split their $10,000 donation between two local nonprofits: Nevada Community Cupboard and Nevada Food at First. Andrew Sieren, plant manager at Burke Corporation, expressed pride in supporting organizations dedicated to tackling hunger, saying, "Their dedication is helping to strengthen our community and improve the lives of those in need."
The donations made under this program are part of Hormel Foods' broader commitment to enhancing community well-being. In its 2024 Global Impact Report, the company revealed that it has contributed over $53 million in cash and food donations to various food security initiatives since 2020. Hormel Foods recognizes that partnerships with nonprofit organizations like Feeding America and Convoy of Hope are crucial in maximizing the impact of their contributions. In 2025, the company also launched a significant partnership with Share Our Strength, the organization behind the No Kid Hungry campaign, which aims to eliminate childhood hunger.
Through this collaboration, Hormel Foods is expanding access to summer meal programs and emphasizing breakfast as an essential component of education. The company's efforts underscore a commitment to ensuring that children receive the nourishment they need to thrive, both in and out of school. Hormel Foods looks forward to participating in various initiatives, including Share Our Strength’s 2026 summer campaign, promoting access to essential summer meals.
From local food banks to national campaigns, Hormel Foods is devoted to building stronger, healthier communities. Its ongoing efforts showcase how the company’s philosophy—"Inspired People. Inspired Food.™"—drives its commitment to social responsibility. Operating in over 80 countries and generating approximately $12 billion in annual revenue, Hormel Foods has established itself as a leader in the food industry while also remaining dedicated to positively impacting the lives of those in its local communities.
In conclusion, as Hormel Foods commemorates 15 years of community-oriented giving during Hunger Action Month, it sets a powerful example of corporate responsibility and engagement. The direct involvement of team members in the allocation of donations not only helps address hunger at home but also strengthens the community fabric where employees live and work. This initiative highlights the importance of collective action in creating lasting change, proving that every dollar donated can spark significant impact when focused on the right objectives.
For more information about Hormel Foods and its charitable initiatives, visit
hormelfoods.com.