Caterpillar Foundation Makes $1.5 Million Commitment

Feeding America announced today that the Caterpillar Foundation is committing $1.5 million to help bring more food to people in need in dozens of communities across the country. In all, 35 local Feeding America food banks will receive grants to help ensure a steady stream of food – including more fresh produce - to those struggling with hunger in the communities they serve.

A portion of the donation will also go towards helping Feeding America, the nation's largest hunger-relief organization, increase the number of meals it brings to people through the organization's nationwide network of food banks.

"We are grateful for the generous support of the Caterpillar Foundation and their commitment to making sure that everyone has enough food on their table," said Bob Aiken, CEO of Feeding America."We know that we can't solve hunger alone – we have to work together. It's a shame that in our 'land of plenty' there are so many people around us who wonder how they will feed themselves or their families."

"Thanks to the support of our partners like Caterpillar, we can do all that we can to make sure there is a steady stream of healthful food for everyone," Aiken said.

The donation is especially important as Feeding America looks to increase the number of meals they help secure for families and individuals. Last year, the Feeding America network provided assistance to 37 million people struggling with hunger, including 14 million children and 3 million seniors. However, the organization has set a goal to deliver an additional 1 billion more meals annually by 2018 - the grant from the Caterpillar Foundation will help achieve that goal.

"As we work to alleviate poverty, we cannot ignore the high percent of Americans who are hungry. We cannot address the root causes of poverty, nor put people on the path to prosperity without this." Michele Sullivan, President, Caterpillar Foundation.

Food insecurity continues to remain high in the United States. According to the USDA, 49 million people in the US struggle with hunger, including 16 million children. To find the Feeding America food bank in your area, go to: www.feedingamerica.org

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About Feeding America

Feeding America is committed to an America where no one is hungry. We support tens of millions of people who experience food insecurity to get the food and resources they say they need to thrive as part of a nationwide network of food banks, statewide food bank associations, food pantries and meal programs. We also invest in innovative solutions to increase equitable access to nutritious food, advocate for legislation that improves food security and work to address factors that impact food security, such as health, cost of living and employment. We partner with people experiencing food insecurity, policymakers, organizations, and supporters, united with them in a movement to end hunger. Visit FeedingAmerica.org to learn more.