Presented by Olympic Athletes Kassidy Cook and Sarah Bacon
In a remarkable display of generosity and community collaboration, Minnesota pig farmers, in partnership with the Minnesota Pork Board (MPB) and Profinium Bank, donated an impressive 91,395 meals to Second Harvest Heartland, the largest hunger-relief organization in the Upper Midwest. The donation event, held on December 10, 2024, highlighted the dedication of local pig farmers to strengthening Minnesota communities through hunger relief efforts.
The donation was presented by Olympic medalists Kassidy Cook and Sarah Bacon, known as the #CooknBacon duo, who have been active advocates for pork as a nutritious protein source. Joining them were representatives from the Minnesota Pork Board, Profinium Bank, and Second Harvest Heartland to celebrate this collaborative effort to support Minnesota families in need.
“This donation couldn’t come at a more critical time,” said Allison O’Toole, CEO of Second Harvest Heartland. “As families grapple with rising costs, donations like this enable us to provide the nutritious food people know and love—like pork—just in time for the holidays.”
The event showcased a united front in fighting hunger, with notable attendees including Mike Patterson and Todd Selvik, Minnesota pig farmers and members of the Minnesota Pork Board, and representatives from partnering organizations.
Supporting Local Communities with Pork
The Minnesota Pork Board’s commitment to community investment and hunger relief has been a cornerstone of their mission. This year, funds raised during events like the Minnesota State Fair, where #CooknBacon connected with the public and promoted pork through t-shirt sales, directly supported the meal donation.
Profinium Bank, a long-time supporter of local nonprofits, played a vital role in making this donation possible through its tailored giveback program. “We’re proud to partner with Minnesota Pork and contribute to the fight against hunger,” said Veronica Bruckhoff, Vice President of Business Development at Profinium.
The Farmers’ Perspective
Pig farmers like Todd Selvik, Vice President of the Minnesota Pork Board, emphasized the importance of partnerships in achieving meaningful impact. “We’re incredibly grateful for organizations like Second Harvest Heartland and Profinium Bank. Their efforts amplify the impact of Minnesota’s pig farming families in feeding our communities.”
Cook and Bacon: Advocates for Pork and Community
For Olympic medalists Kassidy Cook and Sarah Bacon, partnering with Minnesota Pork has been a fulfilling journey. “Meeting the farmers and seeing their dedication has been inspiring,” said Bacon. Cook added, “It’s rewarding to know we’re helping to provide high-quality protein to families in need, especially during the holidays.”
A Shared Mission to Combat Hunger
The Minnesota Pork Board, representing over 3,000 pig farming families, continues to invest in research, education, and promotion to bring high-quality pork to the marketplace. For more information about their mission and initiatives, visit mnpork.com.
Profinium Bank, with its strong community roots, remains a steadfast partner for farmers and nonprofits, offering tailored solutions to help achieve dreams and improve lives across Minnesota. Learn more at profinium.com.
Second Harvest Heartland remains a vital force in hunger relief, distributing millions of meals annually and addressing food insecurity through innovative programs. To learn more or get involved, visit 2harvest.org.
