Kansas City, Mo.-based Russell Stover Candies is donating 130,000 chocolate-filled Valentine’s Day heart boxes to the Kansas City community; an equivalent to $1 million in retail value, enough to fill six and a half semi-trailer trucks.
In an effort to create a special Valentine’s Day for those in need, the boxes were shared with regional food bank Harvesters—The Community Food Network earlier this week.
“As a company built on sharing heartfelt moments, the act of spreading love to our neighbors this Valentine’s Day is very fitting.” said Andreas Pfluger, president and CEO of Russell Stover. “Our company credo includes a commitment to showing our community that we care. This gift does just that.”
As a mainstay in the Kansas City community since 1925, Russell Stover is providing the donation on behalf of its more than 2,700 employees nationwide. The donation is an opportunity to support a cause close to Russell Stover’s heart, especially as it hits so close to home.
“Harvesters aims to feed the hungry by working closely with our network of emergency food pantries, community kitchens and shelters, among others,” said Valerie Nicholson-Watson, CEO of Harvesters. “Many of those we serve don’t always know when they’re going to get their next meal, much less such a special treat, and this generous donation will be a welcomed reminder that people care.”
The event began with opening remarks from Nicholson-Watson, Pfluger, Mayor Sly James and Kansas City, Kan., Mayor Mark Holland. After the formal speaking program, speakers and Harvesters delegate agencies unloaded the goods assembly-line style onto a pallet inside the warehouse for distribution, signifying their collaboration and commitment to supporting local causes.
“I would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to Russell Stover and Harvesters,” said Mayor Sly James of Kansas City, Mo. “Both organizations are part of what makes Kansas City a place where giving back is part of our community culture.”
Also in attendance as part of the program were Gloria Dei Lutheran Church and True Faith Outreach Ministries of Kansas City, Mo. and GPT Local Area Network and St. Peter’s CME Church of Kansas City, Kan. The organizations received the highest praise from their mayors for the work that they do in the area.
“I see first-hand the struggle than many in our communities are facing,” said Mayor Mark Holland. “I am honored to be part of this event today that will help give hope and happiness to so many across our region.”
