In an effort to make an immediate impact on the 1,400 communities it serves, Atmos Energy has donated $1.5 million toward stocking the shelves of local food banks around the country. Two local agencies, the Daniel Pitino Shelter and Help Office of Owensboro, have received $5,000 each.
The Robert W. Best Charitable Giving Fund partners with Atmos and helped contribute to the $1.5 million donation, which will help those in need during the COVID-19 pandemic. According to officials with Atmos, this public health crisis had led to an “unprecedented” number of school closures, layoffs and economic disruptions across the country.
“Millions of students who depend on school food programs for their next meal also have parents whose jobs are at risk or have been eliminated due to the pandemic,” said Atmos Media Contact Kay Coomes.
Coomes said food banks across the country are vital relief organizations during this crisis, and that the need for food assistance will continue to grow in the upcoming weeks and months as schools remain closed and unemployment continues to rise.
According to Kevin Akers, Atmos Energy president and CEO, more than three million U.S. workers filed for unemployment benefits last week alone.
“Many of those are parents with children who rely on school food programs for breakfast and lunch every day,” Akers said. “While many will be left wondering how to pay rent, afford medical bills or make the next car payment, we envision this crucial support will help remove some of the mystery around where those folks might find their next meal.”
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