JBS USA and Plumrose USA to Invest $990,000 in Omaha Region to Support Local Communities as Part of the Hometown Strong Initiative
Building on ongoing sustainability and social responsibility efforts, JBS USA and Plumrose USA today announced plans to invest $990,000 to help the Omaha, Neb., area respond to needs resulting from the coronavirus pandemic and invest in the community’s future.
The companies have been 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.
“We are honored to call Omaha our hometown and take great pride in being a reliable contributor to our local economy,” said John Beasley, JBS Omaha Plant Manager. “Through our Hometown Strong initiative, we want to provide support for the region and help overcome challenges created by the COVID pandemic so we can move forward together.”
One project has already been selected for funding. In October, JBS Omaha contributed $100,000 to the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Midlands to support programs and to create the JBS Kids Café at the South Omaha Boys & Girls Club. JBS Omaha has also helped with the evening meal program during the pandemic, providing more than 4,600 meals to the community.
“Boys & Girls Clubs of the Midlands is grateful for our partnership with JBS USA in Omaha,” said Elizabeth Donner, chief development officer, Boyd & Girls Clubs of the Midlands. “From the beginning, JBS has been committed to helping the kids and families at the South Omaha Club. From supporting our meals programs, to the significant financial investment with our Club’s cafeteria, the team at JBS has made a true impact. We can’t thank them enough for all they have done during this challenging time.
“Our Hometown Strong program is giving us the opportunity to collaborate with local leaders to make a difference in our community,” said David Delgado, Plumrose USA Council Bluffs General Manager. “We want to be a good neighbor, and we look forward to building a stronger region for us all.”
The JBS USA beef production facility in Omaha employs more than 650 people with an annual payroll of more than $31 million. The facility supports more than 500 producers, paying them more than $275 million per year for their livestock. Consistent with its long-term commitment to the local economy, JBS USA Omaha has invested more than $12 million in capital improvements over the last five years.
The Plumrose USA prepared foods facilities in Council Bluffs, Iowa, employ more than 400 people with an annual payroll of more than $20 million. These two facilities produce bacon and a variety of lunch meat products. Plumrose USA has invested more than $12 million in capital improvements over the last three years.
JBS USA anchors dozens of rural communities – operating more than 60 meat, poultry and prepared foods plants and employing 62,000-plus people. Funds are being directed to every community JBS USA calls home.
Hometown Strong is a national $50 million initiative that adds to commitments JBS USA, of which Plumrose USA is a subsidiary, has made this year to protect employees and ensure their job security amid the global pandemic. Hometown Strong is one of the largest community investment programs of its kind in the country. Visit hometownstrong.jbssa.com to learn more.