Smithfield Foods Donates 32,000 Pounds of Protein to Hampton Roads Foodbanks at the Mayflower Marathon
SMITHFIELD, Va., Nov. 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Smithfield Foods donated 32,000 pounds of protein to the 29th Annual Mayflower Marathon Holiday Food and Fund Drive to support the Virginia Peninsula Foodbank and Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore.
“Providing access to protein is a key part of our commitment to fighting hunger in the communities where we live and work,” said Jonathan Toms, senior community development manager for Smithfield Foods. “The Mayflower Marathon is a testament to the strength of our community when we unite around a shared purpose.”
Donated items include ham, sausage and bacon, and will provide 128,000 servings of food to neighbors experiencing hunger in Southeastern Virginia.
“The generous donations from Smithfield ensure that individuals and families experiencing food insecurity on the Peninsula receive much-needed proteins for their holiday table,” said Bob Latvis, president and CEO for the Virginia Peninsula Foodbank. “This and other donations from the Mayflower Marathon give everyone in our community the means to celebrate and connect with their loved ones over a filling and memorable shared meal.”
More than 20 Smithfield employees volunteered at the event by unloading and organizing donated food items.
“Smithfield’s long-standing partnership helps us keep nutritious protein available for households across our community, especially during a season when many are facing tighter budgets,” said Christopher Tan, president and CEO for the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore. “Their continued support strengthens our focus on healthy food access and helps ensure the warmth of holiday meals reaches every table.”
The Mayflower Marathon is a 57-hour continuous food and fund drive that brings hope and relief to many Virginians in need during the holiday season.
These donations are part of Smithfield’s commitment to fighting hunger and strengthening the communities where its employees live, work and raise their families.
Smithfield’s hunger relief program, Helping Hungry Homes®, has provided hundreds of millions of servings of protein in all 50 U.S. states since 2008. Smithfield donated more than 25 million servings of protein, valued at nearly $28 million, to food banks, disaster relief efforts and community outreach programs across the U.S. in 2024.
To learn more about Smithfield’s initiatives to strengthen local communities, visit smithfieldfoods.com/good-is-what-we-do.
About Smithfield Foods
Smithfield Foods, Inc. (Nasdaq: SFD) is an American food company with a leading position in packaged meats and fresh pork products. With a diverse brand portfolio and strong relationships with U.S. farmers and customers, we responsibly meet demand for quality protein around the world.
About Virginia Peninsula Foodbank
Since 1986, Virginia Peninsula Foodbank has been leading the fight against hunger by providing healthy food access, emergency relief, education, and advocacy to families in the cities of Hampton, Newport News, Poquoson, and Williamsburg, and the counties of James City, Gloucester, Mathews, Surry, and York. Not only does the Foodbank help our neighbors in need during times of hardship, the Foodbank plays a major role in disaster relief response. With the support of over 200-member agencies and programs, the Foodbank has provided over 216 million meals to families experiencing food and nutrition insecurity. The Foodbank is a proud member of Feeding America, the Federation of Virginia Food Banks, and the United Way of the Virginia Peninsula. Virginia Peninsula Foodbank has earned a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator for 18 consecutive years. Our vision is to inspire hope by leading the effort for a hunger-free and properly nourished community. For more information, visit us online at www.hrfoodbank.org.
About the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore
Since 1981, the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore has provided more than 420 million meals to neighbors in need. We serve 11 cities and counties, where one in eight residents experience food insecurity. In these communities, we play a vital role in the fight against hunger by collecting, storing, and distributing nutritious food. Beyond food access, we focus on long-term solutions by addressing the root causes of hunger and promoting self-sufficiency. Our mission is made possible by a dedicated network of volunteers, generous donors, and compassionate community partners. Together, we’re working to ensure that no one in our community goes to bed hungry. Learn more at foodbankonline.org or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X, and TikTok.
Contact:
Ray Atkinson
Smithfield Foods
(757) 576-1383
ratkinson@smithfield.com
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/67fbf7c8-46f4-4817-ad2a-9b8ba3b1c1a5
