Campbell Soup Kicks Off Campaign To Champion The FFA
Fall signals harvest season across the country. This year it also marks the kick-off of a national campaign to help support the future of American farming.
Campbell Soup Company (NYSE:CPB) is partnering with the National FFA Organization and Grammy-nominee Jewel to help raise awareness of the importance of supporting the future of American agriculture -- the nation's largest employer. Through the "Help Grow Your Soup" campaign, Campbell will donate $250,000 to champion FFA efforts, which encourage America's youth to participate in agriculture education programs where they learn about the production of food, fiber and natural resources.
Singer/songwriter Jewel, who grew up on a homestead in Alaska and now lives on a working ranch in Texas, says growing up on a farm helped her appreciate the important role farming plays in ensuring families have good, quality food on their tables.
"Most people don't realize that the American farm is one of our most precious national resources," said Jewel. "As a singer, I travel the world and experience new and exciting traditions. Yet to me, American farming continues to be one of the most valuable. As someone who has deep roots on the farm, I'm proud to support the future of agriculture across America."
Beginning Sept. 29, 2008, consumers can visit HelpGrowYourSoup.com and for each click on the red barn, Campbell will donate $1 (up to $250,000) to the National FFA Organization to support its educational and sustainability efforts, as well as preserve several barns across the country. The National FFA Alumni Association will spearhead the barn preservation effort, which also will provide a memorable educational opportunity for high school-age FFA members who will assist.
"FFA has been nurturing our country's agricultural leaders for more than 80 years, making it possible for Americans to enjoy high-quality foods that are safe and affordable," said National FFA President Zach Kinney. "It's critical to prepare future generations for the competitive global marketplace, and it's only with the support from friends like Campbell Soup Company that we will help ensure a strong future for American farming."
Campbell's Commitment to a Sustainable Future
For more than 110 years, Campbell has been sourcing ingredients for its condensed soups from farms across the country. It uses these farm-grown ingredients to deliver the consistent quality and taste that generations of Americans have come to expect from their favorite Campbell's soups.
Campbell also strives to contribute to a sustainable future for American agriculture. Whenever possible, the company sources ingredients from farmers located within 100 miles of its production facilities, enabling it to use fresh ingredients, reduce the environmental impacts of transportation, and support the economies of local farming communities. Campbell also has worked with farmers to develop and promote sustainable agricultural practices, which have helped growers implement industry-leading integrated pest management programs and reduce their reliance on synthetic pesticides.
"Campbell has always been committed to delivering the best, most nourishing foods possible. We cherish the relationships we have with American farming families, many of which have lasted for generations, and we fully recognize that our future success is dependent on the people and the places that help grow the quality ingredients that go into our soups," said Eric Christianson, business director for Campbell's condensed soups. "It's important that we, and all Americans, support the National FFA Organization's efforts to keep American farming thriving."