Pilgrim’s to Invest $1.6 Million in Alabama to Support Local Communities as Part of New Hometown Strong Initiative

Building on ongoing sustainability and social responsibility efforts, Pilgrim’s, an American-based food company, announced plans today to invest $1.6 million in Alabama to help local communities respond to coronavirus and invest in the future.

The investment is part of a new, national $20 million initiative called Hometown Strong that adds to commitments Pilgrim’s has made this year to protect employees and ensure their job security amid the global pandemic.

“It is because of the great work being done in our hometowns that Pilgrim’s is able to provide high-quality to chicken to families across our country,” said Fabio Sandri, interim president and CEO, Pilgrim’s. “Through this initiative, we’ll have the opportunity to collaborate with local leaders and our team members to determine how best to make meaningful and lasting impacts in our communities.”

Pilgrim’s will partner with local officials and community leaders in Enterprise, Guntersville and Russellville to identify investment projects that strengthen these hometowns where the company’s team members live and work.

“There is no doubt that COVID-19 has taken a toll on Alabamians, but because of strong partners like Pilgrim’s, we are bringing much-needed relief to communities around our state,” said Gov. Kay Ivey. “The Pilgrim’s Hometown Strong initiative is not only helping local communities respond to the ongoing pandemic, but it is also positioning us for a strong comeback and future. I am grateful for Alabama’s collaboration on this initiative and for the strong partner we have in Pilgrim’s. We will overcome this together.”

Pilgrim’s has a strong presence in the state of Alabama, employing more than 3,200 people and paying family farmers nearly $89 million each year to support the area facilities. An important contributor to the Alabama economy, Pilgrim’s has an annual payroll in Alabama of more than $113 million and has contributed more than $146 million in capital investments over the last five years.

Nationally, the $20 million investment from Pilgrim’s, as part of the $50 million nationwide contribution from JBS USA, will include donations to alleviate food insecurity, strengthen long-term community infrastructure and well-being, and support COVID-19 emergency response and relief efforts. All funds will be committed by the end of the year. Visit hometownstrong.jbssa.com to learn more.

Pilgrim’s anchors dozens of rural communities – operating more than 30 meat poultry and prepared foods plants and employing 31,000-plus people. During the pandemic, Pilgrim’s has invested more than $65 million to enhance safeguards for team members and to reward them with thank-you bonuses. This includes hiring new team members to conduct additional, around-the-clock sanitation and cleaning services, and to provide education, training and enforcement of COVID-19 preventive measures.