Building on its ongoing sustainability and social responsibility efforts, JBS USA today announced plans to invest $1.3 million to help Tolleson respond to needs resulting from the coronavirus pandemic and invest in the community’s future.

JBS USA has worked 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.

“Through the Hometown Strong initiative, we are partnering with our community to make positive contributions for our neighbors,” said Jerry Brown, JBS Tolleson Plant General Manager. “We are proud of our role in providing food for our hometown and our country, but we are also grateful to be able to support other needs in Tolleson.”

“Tolleson’s governance model is balanced on a commitment to excellence and its love of all people,” said Tolleson Mayor Anna Tovar. “During this unprecedented crisis, JBS, time and again, reveals its love of its people and the community they serve, which is the hallmark of true public service. The Hometown Strong initiative represents JBS’ overwhelming generosity.”

The JBS USA Tolleson beef production facility employs more than 1,700 people with an annual payroll of more than $81 million. The facility supports more than 600 producers, paying them more than $790 million per year for their livestock.

Consistent with its long-term commitment to the local economy, JBS USA Tolleson has invested nearly $72 million in capital improvements during the past five years.

JBS USA anchors dozens of rural communities – operating more than 60 meat, poultry and prepared foods plants and employing 62,000-plus people. Funds are being directed to every community JBS USA calls home. The U.S. headquarters is based in Greeley, Colorado. The company is  a subsidiary of Brazil-based JBS S.A.

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

Visit hometownstrong.jbssa.com to learn more.

Editor’s note: This press release was submitted by JBS USA.