Giving back

As the US marks its annual Thanksgiving holiday, we mark the contributions of F&B companies that are giving back during this important season.

Leading travel restaurateur HMSHost is saluting the efforts of first responders – the “everyday heroes” who put their lives on the line and support local communities – through an exclusive promotion with Coca-Cola.

First responders in the US will receive a complimentary 20oz Coca-Cola with any food purchase at selected HMS-operated airport restaurants and motorway service plazas until the end of December.

The co-promotion started on 23 November to include the 26 November Thanksgiving Day celebrations. HMSHost noted that many first responders are flying and driving to destinations in the service of others.

HMSHost Vice President of Marketing and Communications Atousa Ghoreichi said: “HMSHost is proud to support first responders and give back to this exceptional community during the holidays. We are particularly inspired by their efforts on the frontlines of the coronavirus pandemic and are grateful for their service.”

In other news, Jersey Mike’s Subs sandwich chain raised US$2.5 million to support the US hunger relief organisation Feeding America in the run-up to Thanksgiving. Jersey Mike’s teamed up with the organisation in a nationwide fundraiser on 21 and 22 November with the initial goal of raising US$1 million or 20% of its sales in the period.

Jersey Mike’s Subs Founder and CEO Peter Cancro said the much needed US$2.5 million raised – more than double the target – will help provide over 25 million meals to those in need. US food banks are under pressure to address an increased need for food assistance as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Cancro addresses the challenge and the fund-raising effort in the video on this page.