Smithfield Foods gifts $300K to Hampton Roads Workforce Council

Smithfield Foods Inc., the world’s largest pork processor and hog producer, announced Tuesday it has donated $300,000 to the Hampton Roads Workforce Council (HRWC), a nonprofit that develops workforce policy and initiatives in Southeastern Virginia.

The donation will support the HRWC’s new Veterans Employment Center in Newport News. The center will provide resources and coaching for service members, veterans and military spouses who plan to return to civilian life.

“We are so thankful to Smithfield Foods for this major grant. We appreciate the opportunity to work with a world-class, Virginia-based organization that maintains a deep understanding of the importance of supporting American veterans,” HRWC CEO and President Shawn Avery said in a statement. “The advancement of this program will allow us to provide veterans and military spouses the resources needed to successfully transition to civilian life and achieve their career goals.”

The Veterans Employment Center will offer on-site hiring support, career consultation and access to employment opportunities, including positions with Smithfield Foods.

“As an American food company, we believe in supporting the men and women who have served our country and are confident that this center will provide incredible opportunities for military veterans and their spouses,” Keira Lombardo, Smithfield Foods chief administrative officer said in a statement. “Beyond our funding, we look forward to partnering with the center to share employment opportunities at Smithfield with veterans in our area to help them make the transition from military to civilian life.”

Smithfield Foods currently employs more than 1,800 veterans. Based in Smithfield, agriculture giant Smithfield Foods was founded in 1936 and employs more than 40,000 people in the U.S. 

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