Big donation will help feed thousands of Iowans
Sinclair Tractor takes on the challenge of eliminating hunger
When it comes to eliminating hunger, it helps to have companies leading by example. And a $600,000 donation is quite the attention getter.
That’s how much Sinclair Tractor, a John Deere dealership celebrating its 25th anniversary, recently gave to food banks in the communities it serves.
Owner Bob Sinclair said employees wanted to do something that would rival the success of their 10th anniversary celebration concert from 15 years ago, and would help give back to the community. Another concert was planned, this time with addressing hunger as the focus.
Our team unanimously agreed that raising money for food banks was the right choice,” Sinclair said. “The event was free, but we gave our customers and suppliers the opportunity to donate to food banks. Donations are still coming in, but we have raised over $600,000 for Foodbanks in Southeast Iowa, Western Illinois, and Northern Missouri. Through the Food Bank System, an adult can be fed for only $10 per week. So, we made a huge impact in our community.”
Donations are still coming in, but we have raised over $600,000 for Foodbanks in Southeast Iowa, Western Illinois, and Northern Missouri.
Sinclair said all 325 food banks in the dealership’s territory along with its employees, customers, suppliers and their families were invited to the event. Attendance was well over 10,000.
Taking on the challenge
Recently, while speaking at the 2023 Iowa Hunger Summit, John Deere Foundation President Nate Clark challenged Iowa business leaders to help end hunger in the state.
“I encourage everyone—especially our fellow business leaders—to embrace the idea that equitable access to safe and nutritious food is essential to our success as a broader community,” said Eberlin. “Our local food banks provide dignity and security to people in need and create a stronger food system to ensure that no one goes to bed hungry. Sinclair’s significant donation to area food banks is an amazing example of community impact in action and John Deere was proud to participate.”
“We were thrilled to receive this generous donation from Sinclair Tractor which will impact countless lives,” said Michelle Book, President and CEO of the Foodbank of Iowa. “We were honored that so many different community members came together to contribute to this gift and invest in ending hunger throughout the region.”