Eight hundred pounds donated by Tyson Foods
St. Joseph’s Family Center received 800 pounds of chicken to serve needy families in Gilroy thanks to a donation made by Tyson Foods.
In a concerted effort in the fight against hunger, Tyson, Lift Up America and the San Jose Sharks teamed up to deliver a truckload of protein products containing 25,000 pounds of chicken to more than 20 area hunger relief agencies, including St. Joseph’s and the Salvation Army of Gilroy.
“It’s refreshing to see something surface after the holidays,” said David Cox, executive director of St. Joseph’s. “Our needs are year round. It’s a very practical donation that is deeply appreciated.” This is the third year St. Joseph’s has received a hefty donation from Tyson.
“Our partnership and team spirit between these great organizations have a tremendous impact,” said Dave Hannah, CEO of Lift Up America, an organization fueled by caring corporations and individuals that aims to feed the nation’s hungry while providing hope. “It is truly inspirational to see so many entities coming together with such a noble goal in mind.”
“We’re honored to join forces with such caring organizations to help the people of the San Jose area,” said John Tyson, chairman of Tyson Foods. “We hope our contribution inspires others to participate in the fight against hunger.” Since 2000, Tyson has donated $3 million and more that 50 million pounds of chicken, beef and pork products to more than 600 hunger relief agencies nationwide.
Last year, more than $40 million in gifts were distributed throughout the United States and Mexico because of the generosity of companies like Tyson.
Protein is one of the most efficient and long lasting sources of energy and is a commodity that St. Joseph’s doesn’t see too much of, Cox said. He was delighted to hear that Tyson would, again, be donating the much needed protein that so many of the area’s needy are lacking in their diet.
