IARN — An Iowa company that is one of America’s leading shell egg and egg-product producers recently helped raise more than $150,000 for hunger relief groups across Sioux County.
Center Fresh Group, based in Sioux Center, went beyond its usual charitable giving commitments during Hunger Action Month in September. The family-owned company raised approximately $104,000 at a Drive Out Hunger golf outing, raised another $61,000 at a second golf fundraiser, and then added a $25,000 match.
Bruce Dooyema, flock logistics coordinator with Center Fresh Group, says all money raised will help benefit Sioux County’s local communities.
“When we decided to do all the food pantries in Sioux County, we didn’t realize there was so many,” Dooyema said. “We thought there was four, and when we started doing our research, there ended up being eight food pantries in Sioux County. When you start looking at all of the food and all the families they touch, it’s an amazing number. You wouldn’t think the need in Sioux County would be that high. It’s truly humbling to realize what’s going on in your county.”
Center Fresh Group’s giving is an ongoing commitment to the places and people where the farm operates. In addition to the monetary donations, the farm served free omelets to community members on Friday to celebrate World Egg Day.
“Always be kind, always be humble, and always be looking out for other people,” Dooyema said. “Always be looking to help out in your community in any way that you can. There are people that are less fortunate than what you think you are. So, always be humble and always be willing to help others. There’s nothing more rewarding than lending a hand to help your neighbor. I think that’s what people in Iowa are great at. When someone is in need, somebody is there to help them. We’re all willing to reach out and help each other.”
Learn more at centerfreshgroup.com.
Story courtesy of the Iowa Agribusiness Radio Network.
