Pilgrim’s to Invest $860,000 in Moorefield to Support Local Community as Part of New Hometown Strong Initiative
Building on its ongoing sustainability and social responsibility efforts, Pilgrim’s today announced plans to invest $860,000 in Moorefield, W.Va., to support the community’s future.
Pilgrim’s has 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. Community members may send suggested proposals for investment to hometownstrong@pilgrims.com.
“The Town of Moorefield would like to thank Pilgrim’s for their support and engagement during these trying times as we continue to navigate the difficulties associated with the Covid-19 pandemic,” said Moorefield Mayor Gary Stalnaker. “Having Pilgrim’s in our backyard to feed and assist us during this period provides a deep sense of security to our community as we move forward together.”
One project has already been selected for funding. The company is partnering with the Moorefield Park and Recreation department to expand the Moorefield Town Park. Pilgrim’s is investing $600,000 to install three full-size basketball courts, a new playground and a splash pad, in addition to building new park restrooms and constructing two picnic pavilions.
“We are thrilled to support this project and create a place where families and friends can get outside and enjoy new and improved recreation activities,” said Allen Collins, Pilgrim’s Moorefield complex manager. “During what has been a very challenging year, we are humbled to have the opportunity to make a difference within our community.”
“The funds Pilgrim’s has decided to invest in our park will have an impact for lasting generations,” Stalnaker said. “This expansion has long been needed. The hard working families of our town deserve a park where they can take part in various activities or simply relax in a safe and secure environment in the context of a beautiful location. Moorefield and Pilgrim’s together are Hometown Strong.”
The Pilgrim’s Moorefield facilities employ more than 1,700 people with an annual payroll of more than $64 million. The production facility supports 126 growers, paying them more than $24 million per year for their livestock. Consistent with its long-term commitment to the local economy, the Pilgrim’s Moorefield facilities have invested nearly $72 million in capital improvements over the last five years.
Pilgrim’s anchors dozens of rural communities – operating more than 30 meat poultry and prepared foods facilities and employing 31,000-plus people in the United States. Nationally, the Hometown Strong initiative is a $20 million investment from Pilgrim’s, which is part of a $50 million nationwide contribution from JBS USA. Visit hometownstrong.jbssa.com to learn more.