LEESBURG — Hunger relief has long been a focus area of Maple Leaf Farms charitable giving program and they recently joined other Indiana poultry companies to celebrate the impact that industry donations made to relieve food insecurity in Indiana this past year.

“The Tucker family understands that nutritious protein products are often in short supply for organizations that fight food insecurity,” said Co-President John Tucker.  “That’s why our company routinely donates our duck and chicken products to local organizations who serve families in need.”

In total, Indiana State Poultry Association companies donated more than 800,000 servings of poultry products in 2018. Maple Leaf Farms proudly donated approximately 250,000 servings this past year.

“We look forward to joining other ISPA member companies in making needed food donations around Thanksgiving each year,” said Co-President Scott Tucker. “More importantly, it’s inspiring to consider the positive impact our industry makes to fight hunger throughout the entire year, not just during the holidays.”

These donations and the positive impact that the poultry industry has on the state were recently acknowledged during a ceremony at the Indiana Statehouse by Governor Eric Holcomb.

“Indiana’s poultry producers are remarkable,” Holcomb said. “Year after year, they provide thousands of meals for Hoosiers in need. I commend their goodwill and encourage others to follow their example this holiday season.”

The Food Bank of Northern Indiana and Gleaner’s Food Bank, both members of the nationwide Feeding America Network, are among the organizations that Maple Leaf Farms served in 2018. 

“In addition to donating poultry products to Feeding America members, our company also makes it a priority to provide contributions to local food pantries in Kosciusko County,” said Chief Operating Officer Scott Reinholt.