Pilgrim’s to Invest $340,000 in Canton to Support Local Community as Part of New Hometown Strong Initiative
Building on its ongoing sustainability and social responsibility efforts, Pilgrim’s today announced plans to invest $340,000 in Canton, Ga., to support the community’s future and help respond to needs resulting from the coronavirus pandemic.
Pilgrim’s is working with local leaders to identify where the funds can best help meet immediate and longer-term community needs in three key areas: food insecurity, community infrastructure and well-being, and COVID-19 emergency response and relief efforts. All projects will be determined by the end of the year. Community members may send suggested proposals for investment to hometownstrong@pilgrims.com.
“On behalf of the whole Pilgrim’s Canton team, I’m very proud to be able to partner with our hometown in this important way,” said Brian Wright, Canton Complex Manager. “The Hometown Strong initiative provides us with an opportunity to invest in our community during a critical time while looking toward the future.”
“Cherokee County values our partnership with Pilgrim’s,” said Bryan Reynolds, Community Services Agency Director for Cherokee County. “Their contributions to Cherokee County and our citizens remain strong even during unique and challenging times. Their generosity is proof of their commitment to our community.”
The Pilgrim’s Canton production facility employs nearly 700 people with an annual payroll of more than $23 million. The facility supports 113 growers, paying them more than $17 million per year for their livestock. Consistent with its long-term commitment to the local economy, Pilgrim’s Canton has invested more than $14.7 million in capital improvements over the last six years.
Pilgrim’s anchors dozens of rural communities – operating more than 30 meat poultry and prepared foods plants and employing 31,000-plus people in the United States. Nationally, the Hometown Strong initiative is a $20 million investment from Pilgrim’s, which is part of a $50 million nationwide contribution from JBS USA. Visit hometownstrong.jbssa.com to learn more.