UFA and BASF donate to COVID-19 food bank relief efforts

United Farmers of Alberta Co-operative Ltd. (UFA) is pleased to announce donations totaling $60,000 for COVID-19 relief in support of vital services focused on protecting the well-being of people in the communities they serve. Of the $60,000, $19,000 is being donated by UFA delegates, on behalf of UFA with funding directed to local food banks, and other initiatives that provide required support during these unprecedented times.

“The well-being of our communities is paramount and serves as a driving force not only behind everything we are doing in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, but also with what we support throughout the year,” says Scott Bolton, President and CEO of UFA. “We know the road ahead is long. But we continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with our neighbours and it’s why we are collectively committing $60,000 in funding for immediate support of organizations providing vital services to keep our communities strong. We are proud to stand by our members and customers, just as we have for over 100 years. We are in this together. We will get through this and emerge even stronger.”

Kimberly MacDonald, Community Investment Manager for the Co-operative says, “UFA was built by farmers, for farmers. We know that communities are sustained by strong people, both physically and mentally. Now, more than ever, we believe it’s our Co-operative’s responsibility to ensure our rural communities have access to the services they need to thrive even in the face of adversity.”

As the impact of COVID-19 continues to evolve in the communities where they live and work, UFA remains committed to protecting the health and safety of their members, customers and team.

In an effort to provide the best possible service from locations that remain safe and reliable, UFA has implemented a number of preventative measures. For an up-to-date list of all preventative measures in place please visit ufa.com

BASF joined COVID-19 hunger relief efforts with a $64,398.20 donation to Food Banks Canada. The company’s employees participated in a virtual food drive in March and April to support the 3,000+ food banks and community agencies across Canada. The contribution will support food purchasing, distribution and resourcing for food banks across the country helping ensure that Canadians have the support they need during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Ensuring Canadians have access to an affordable, abundant and safe food supply is a common mission the agriculture industry strives to provide each and every day,” said Jonathan Sweat, Vice President, Business Management, Agricultural Solutions for BASF Canada. “The need is never more pressing than during and after a crisis of this magnitude. Through this donation our employees are supporting food banks in the communities where they – and our customers – live and work and I couldn’t be prouder of the united contribution.”

BASF employees throughout Canada participated in the virtual food drive by making financial contributions online. All funds raised will be donated to Food Banks Canada to be dispersed to food banks across the country including the communities where BASF employees live and work.

“Food Banks Canada launched a special $150M appeal to help ensure that food banks can continue their critical work during the COVID-19 pandemic. We are so appreciative of everyone who has come together, including BASF Canada, to help ensure our neighbours living with food insecurity have enough to make it through this pandemic and into the future,” says Chris Hatch, CEO Food Banks Canada.