FFPSA Donates $100,000 to Greater Chicago Food Depository During Process Expo
September 24, 2017
The Foundation of the Food Processing Suppliers Association (FFPSA) presented a donation of $100,000 to the Greater Chicago Food Depository during PROCESS EXPO last week.
The donation, a result of its DEFEAT HUNGER Campaign, included food products donated by PROCESS EXPO exhibitors and money raised through virtual donations, which is the equivalent of 400,000 meals, and will be used to help fight hunger in the Greater Chicago Area.
The presentation took place during PROCESS EXPO, a trade show dedicated to all segments of the food and beverage processing industry, that took place at McCormick Place Complex in Chicago.
FFPSA Chairman Jeff Dahl presented the donation on behalf of the association and PROCESS EXPO participants to Kate Maehr, executive director and CEO, Greater Chicago Food Depository.
"Today, I am honored to present a $100,000 donation on behalf of the FPSA Foundation to the Greater Chicago Food Depository. We are thrilled we were able to reach our 2017 goal of providing 400,000 meals for those in need of food in Cook County and the great city of Chicago," Dahl said.
He added, "I am delighted to announce that our combined efforts since the inception of the DEFEAT HUNGER program in 2013 have now resulted in contributions totaling nearly 1 million meals."
"We are so grateful for the incredible support FPSA provides those struggling with hunger in Cook County," Maehr said. "The Defeat Hunger initiative fuels the Food Depository's response as we provide food - and hope - for our neighbors in need."
Greater Chicago Food Depository is Chicago's food bank providing food for hungry people while striving to end hunger in their community.
They do this in partnership with 700 agencies and programs including pantries, soup kitchens, shelters and responses for children, older adults and veterans. This network distributes food where it is needed most throughout Cook County.
Since 1979, the Food Depository has made a daily impact on hunger across Cook County. Last year, the Food Depository distributed nearly 72 million pounds of food, 37 percent of which was fresh produce.
Every day the Food Depository distributes the equivalent of 164,000 meals.
Partner Voices
MGM Resorts is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse culture, not just among employees and guests but also within its supply chain. The company prioritizes procuring goods and services from businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans, people with disabilities, LGBTQ individuals and those facing economic disadvantages. This commitment is integral to MGM Resorts' global procurement strategy.
Through its voluntary supplier diversity program, MGM Resorts actively identifies and connects certified diverse-owned suppliers to opportunities within its supply chain. The company is on track to spend at least 15% of its biddable procurement with diverse-owned businesses by 2025, demonstrating that supplier diversity is not only a social responsibility but also a strategic business imperative.
Supplier diversity isn’t just the right thing to do – it’s good for business. A diverse supply chain allows access to a broader range of perspectives and experience, helping to drive innovation, entrepreneurship and resilience, while strengthening communities. At MGM Resorts, engaging diverse suppliers ensures best-in-class experiences for guests and clients. Supplier diversity ensures a more resilient supply chain while supporting economic development in the communities in which it operates.
The impact of MGM Resorts' supplier diversity initiatives is significant. In 2023, these efforts supported over 3,500 jobs across more than 30 states, contributed over $214 million in income for diverse-owned businesses and generated more than $62 million in tax revenue. The story extends beyond the numbers – it reflects the tangible benefits brought to small and diverse-owned businesses, fostering economic empowerment in their communities.
MGM Resorts also supports the development and business skills of diverse-owned businesses through investment, mentorship and education. Through the MGM Resorts Supplier Diversity Mentorship Program, the company identifies, mentors and develops diverse-owned businesses to fill its future pipeline, while providing businesses with tools and resources to empower and uplift. Since 2017, the program has successfully graduated 105 diverse-owned businesses and is on track to achieve its goal of 150 graduates by 2025.
MGM Resorts’ commitment to supplier diversity not only enhances its business operations but also plays a crucial role in uplifting communities and fostering economic development. This approach reinforces the idea that diversity is a powerful driver of innovation and resilience, benefiting both the company and the wider community.
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