Ohio Pig Farmers Donate to Fight Hunger, Delivering High-Quality Pork to Ohio Families
NEW ALBANY, Ohio — Pork producers across the Midwest continue to demonstrate the power of agriculture and community as Ohio pig farmers step up once again to combat food insecurity. The Ohio Pork Council has donated $5,000 to the Greater Cleveland Food Bank, helping deliver high-quality pork protein to families in need across northeast Ohio.
This initiative highlights how pork producers are not only leaders in pig farming, pork production, and swine agriculture, but also champions of their local communities—ensuring nutritious food reaches those who need it most.
“We know that there’s a real need in communities across the state,” said Nathan Schroeder, president of the Ohio Pork Council and a pig farmer from Leipsic, Ohio. “This long-standing partnership is one way Ohio pig farmers can step up for our neighbors and help make a difference for families who need it most.”
Pork Producers Address Food Insecurity Across Northeast Ohio
The impact is significant. In 2025 alone, the Greater Cleveland Food Bank provided food assistance to more than 404,000 individuals across six counties—where one in six people face food insecurity.
With rising demand for protein sources, donations from the pork industry play a critical role in helping food banks supply nutritious, high-quality pork products to families, seniors, and children.
“We’re grateful to the Ohio Pork Council for providing this much-needed protein,” said Karen Pozna, Director of Communications & Events for the food bank. “This donation will help meet the needs of so many families in the Greater Cleveland community.”
Leadership Applauds Pork Industry’s Commitment to Communities
The event also drew support from Shontel Brown, who emphasized the importance of partnerships between agriculture and hunger relief organizations.
“Hunger is real in Northeast Ohio, and we have so many families in need,” Brown said. “I applaud the generous spirit of pig farmers across the state. This donation will make a meaningful difference for local families.”
Pork Power Initiative Connects Farmers to Communities
This donation is part of the Ohio Pork Council’s Pork Power initiative, a long-standing program that connects pork producers directly with food banks and community partners. The program provides funding so organizations can purchase pork—supporting both local farmers and food access programs.
The effort reflects the pork industry’s We Care® ethical principles, reinforcing the commitment of U.S. pork producers to give back, support their communities, and ensure access to safe, wholesome food.
From hog barns and pig farms to food banks and family tables, this initiative showcases the full impact of the pork production chain—bridging the gap between farmers and consumers in meaningful ways.
About the Organizations
The Greater Cleveland Food Bank is the largest hunger relief organization in northeast Ohio, serving Ashland, Ashtabula, Cuyahoga, Geauga, Lake, and Richland counties. Through food distribution centers, kitchens, and community programs, their mission is to ensure everyone has access to nutritious food every day.
The Ohio Pork Council, established in 1968, represents approximately 2,500 pork producers and works to promote and strengthen the state’s pork industry through education, advocacy, and community outreach.
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