Smithfield and the Norfolk Tides Join Forces to Support the Community
At Smithfield Hunger Relief Day, a night at the ballpark did more than entertain. The partnership between Smithfield and the Norfolk Tides put food insecurity in the spotlight and turned fan energy into help for neighbors who need it. The cheers in the stands met a very real need beyond the outfield fence, showing how a game can carry weight when it’s tied to a purpose.
A Donation That Meets Real Needs
As part of the event, Smithfield donated over 26,000 pounds of protein—enough for more than 105,000 servings—to the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore. That scale matters. It translates into meals on kitchen tables for children, seniors, and families who are stretching groceries to the end of the week. Each pound helps close the gap for people facing food shortages right now.
What Fans Brought to the Table
Beyond the company’s contribution, fans played a part. People showed up for baseball and brought nonperishable food items with them, making their ticket a small act of care. By the end, more than 300 pounds of canned goods had been collected at the stadium. It’s a simple act—carry a bag in, drop it at the gate—but together those small choices add up to practical relief in the fight against food scarcity.
Helping Hungry Homes: Smithfield’s Ongoing Effort
Smithfield’s Helping Hungry Homes program sits at the heart of this work. The initiative is dedicated to fighting hunger across the United States and reflects a long-running commitment to social responsibility. By teaming up with local organizations like the Foodbank, the program reaches deeper into communities and gets food where it’s needed most.
Making Giving a Habit
Events like Smithfield Hunger Relief Day do two things at once: they provide immediate help and they nudge giving into everyday life. When fans and local residents are invited to pitch in, awareness grows, and so does follow-through. People leave the ballpark thinking about food insecurity—and many take the next step at home by donating, volunteering, or simply spreading the word.
What’s Next: Growing the Partnership
As the partnership between Smithfield and the Norfolk Tides continues, there’s room to build on this momentum. Future efforts can open more doors for people who need support and keep strengthening the ties that hold a community together. One game, one night, one shared goal—less worry at dinnertime.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the purpose of Smithfield Hunger Relief Day?
The day brings attention to food insecurity and channels both donations and fan participation into direct support for the community.
How much food did Smithfield donate?
Smithfield provided over 26,000 pounds of protein—more than 105,000 servings—benefiting the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore.
How can I get involved?
You can attend similar events, bring nonperishable items to collection drives, or volunteer time and resources with local food banks.
What is Smithfield’s Helping Hungry Homes program?
It’s Smithfield’s hunger-relief initiative focused on fighting food insecurity across the United States, often in partnership with local organizations like the Foodbank.
What did fans contribute at the stadium?
Fans donated over 300 pounds of nonperishable food, dropping off canned goods as they entered the game.
