JBS USA to Invest $250,000 in Grand Island Northwest Public Schools as Part of Hometown Strong Initiative

Press Release Apr 07, 2021
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In July 2020, JBS USA announced a $3.5 million investment in Grand Island, Neb., to support the community’s future through the company’s Hometown Strong program. JBS Grand Island has been working with local leaders and various organizations to determine how the funds can best help meet immediate and longer-term community needs.

In partnership with Grand Island Northwest Public Schools, JBS USA will provide $250,000 to renovate the aging Northwest High School auditorium. The renovation will include replacing curtains, track hardware, rigging, seating and carpet; repainting ceilings and walls; and upgrading sound and lighting. In addition to being utilized by elementary, middle and high school students, the auditorium will also be put to good use by many community organizations.

“This investment in Grand Island Northwest Public Schools will benefit our entire community, including our JBS team members and their families,” said Justin Bstandig, JBS Grand Island human resources director. “We’re proud to partner with local schools to ensure the future is bright in our hometown for generations to come.”

There will be a check presentation at the Northwest Public Schools District Office, 2710 N. North Rd., on Thursday, April 8 at 10:45 a.m. Attendees should enter through Door #3, where they will be buzzed in and escorted to the board room. 

“Northwest Public Schools is extremely grateful to JBS for this generous gift for our auditorium project,” said Dr. Jeff Edwards, superintendent, Northwest Public Schools. “Fine Arts is extremely important to the culture at Northwest and this gift will help us revitalize the auditorium, which is used by multiple school groups, as well as community groups.”

To date, JBS USA has announced Hometown Strong investments totaling $2,330,000 in Grand Island, including:

  • $500,000 to fund the Grand Island Senior High School’s Academy of Medical Science Program to help train future healthcare workers; 
  • $500,000 to fund the expansion of the Eagle Scout Park sports fields, playground, splash pad, concession stand and restrooms;
  • $500,000 to expand a hike and bike trail leading to the JBS facility, creating a safer commute for our team members, in partnership with the City of Grand Island Parks and Recreation; 
  • $400,000 to remodel the Early Childhood Education Learning Center;
  • $200,000 to fund home building for JBS team members through the Grand Island Area Habitat for Humanity;
  • $150,000 to fund improvements to the Grand Island Literacy Council facility, which teaches skills necessary to communicate and become a U.S. citizen;
  • $60,000 to provide social service programs and COVID-19 relief for the Salvation Army of Grand Island men’s shelter; and
  • $20,000 to purchase a Jaws of Life rescue tool for the Chapman Volunteer Fire Department.

Click here to learn more about the investments being made in Grand Island.

The JBS USA Grand Island beef production facility employs more than 3,600 people with an annual payroll of more than $160 million. The facility supports more than 675 local producers, paying them more than $2.2 billion per year for their livestock. 

Hometown Strong is a national $50 million initiative that adds to commitments JBS USA has made 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.