The North American Association of Food Equipment Manufacturers has implemented a new, yearlong program to support the Feeding America network of 200 food banks located across the U.S. To kick start this initiative, NAFEM donated $500,000 to Feeding America.

“As foodservice industry leaders, NAFEM and its 600-plus member companies care about helping people in our communities, especially those who struggle with hunger,” said Kevin Fink, CFSP, chair of NAFEM’s Social Responsibility Committee and president, Standex Refrigerated Solutions Group. “That’s why we’ve focused our new social purpose platform on helping feed people in need.”

NAFEM’s donation will help provide about 5 million meals, per a release announcing the new program. In addition to its initial donation, throughout 2020 NAFEM will match donations its member companies make to their local Feeding America member food banks up to $500,000.

Thirty-seven million people face hunger in America, including 5.5 million seniors and more than 11 million children, according to USDA data. Feeding America’s national network of food banks helps combat this problem. “Through our partnership, we are able to help provide millions of meals to families who struggle to put food on their tables,” said Ami McReynolds, Feeding America’s chief equity and programs officer.