Jon Nash: Cargill is keeping food on tables and store shelves during COVID crisis
As individuals, families and communities face challenges and uncertainty caused by the spread of COVID-19, we want to recognize the work happening around the clock to keep food on family tables and store shelves through this crisis. That work is happening right here in Wichita, thanks to the heroic efforts of more than 1,100 Cargill employees who show up every day to nourish our people locally, and in communities throughout the United States and around the world.
At Cargill, we remain focused on keeping our food system and agricultural sector resilient and dependable. And that is only possible because of the contributions of everyone along the food supply chain, who continue working to feed the world safely, responsibly and sustainably during this pandemic. This includes farmers and ranchers, our employees, retail, manufacturing and food service customers, our partners at food shelves and social organizations in Wichita, and those who transport food to people and animals around the world.
Food manufacturing has been deemed an essential service, which means our employees play a critical role in the COVID-19 response. Whether in an office, at home or in our plants, the food system would not work without them and I want to send my sincere gratitude for their tireless commitment.
During this time of crisis, we are prioritizing their health and safety while they prioritize the essential work of feeding the world. That is why we have implemented safety measures like work from home where possible, temperature testing, enhanced cleaning and sanitizing, prohibiting visitors and offering staggered breaks and shift flexibility. Employees are provided with, and encouraged to use, face coverings as a supplement to the many social distancing practices already put into place. And we are waiving COVID-19 testing co-pays for our employees and incorporating incentive pay and additional sick leave to help everyone manage through this unprecedented time.
Communities like Wichita are the heart of our food system, and we are committed to their resilience, during and through the recovery from this pandemic. This ranges from sharing resources to keep agricultural communities safe, to supporting increased biosecurity practices to contributing to social programs. Cargill has contributed $35 million to COVID-19 relief and recovery efforts through regional partnerships, product donations and employee personal giving.
Our commitment to doing the right thing, putting people first and reaching higher will continue to guide every decision we make. Vulnerable children and families around the world, and right here in Wichita, are facing food insecurity at unprecedented levels. Our nonprofit partners, including Action for Hungry Kids, the American Farmland Trust-Farmer Relief Fund, the Restaurant Employee Relief Fund, local food banks and other community organizations, are playing a critical role in ensuring no one goes hungry. We are supporting them with both food donations and monetary contributions to keep food available for families who need assistance, and to deliver emergency food boxes to address nutrition needs.
Our thoughts are with all those who have been impacted by the virus, especially those who are sick and under medical care. We are inspired by the contributions of Wichita’s medical professionals, first responders, workers, and farmers whose selfless efforts are helping ensure that people and animals around the world are cared for and their essential needs are met. Cargill’s 1,100 employees here in Wichita and our 160,000 employees around the world offer our thanks and continued support in overcoming this crisis.