Honey Turkey for the Holidays

Just in time for the holidays, TYSON FRESH MEATS has given the gift of nourishment to Kansas families in need, donating more than $32,000 worth of HONEY TURKEY DELI MEAT — more than 11,000 pounds — to help Wheatland Electric Cooperative, Inc. (WEC) Power the Pantry in 2025.

This generous donation — valued at $32,742 — is helping fill shelves at nearly a dozen local food banks across WEC’s service territory, bringing vital protein to households facing food insecurity and showcasing the strength of community partnerships in action.

On Oct. 20, WEC employees picked up and delivered thousands of boxes of honey turkey to food banks and community organizations including the Community Food Bank of Barton County in Great Bend, First Baptist Church in Holcomb, Hamilton County Food Bank in Syracuse, Greeley County Food Bank in Tribune, Wichita County Food Bank in Leoti, Hope’s Closet in Scott City, and both Genesis Family Health and the Emmaus House in Garden City.

Employees also visited senior centers and churches along the way — including a few stops in Lakin — ensuring families across WEC’s service territory received a share of the donation.

During the extended government shutdown, many families faced heightened financial stress and were struggling to keep nutritious food on the table. Tyson’s donation of protein-rich deli meat helped bridge that gap — providing a much-needed boost to local food banks at a critical time.

“We’re grateful for Tyson’s commitment to our communities,” said Alli Conine, director of member services and corporate communications. “This donation will help feed thousands of families and make a real difference this holiday season.”

The KANSAS FOOD BANK in Garden City also played a key role in making WEC’s efforts a success. Their staff picked up and stored about half of the donated meat in their walk-in freezers. This capacity allowed for expanded distribution to emergency aid services, senior centers, and other local food pantries in advance of the holiday season.

“Without the support of the Kansas Food Bank, we couldn’t have accommodated Tyson’s generous donation,” Conine added. “Their help has made it possible for us to reach even more of our cooperative members across our vast service territory.”

When organizations unite with compassion and purpose, entire communities grow stronger. Tyson’s contribution — along with the Kansas Food Bank’s support — is a shining example of what can happen when people come together to care for one another.

From all of us at WEC: Thank you for helping us share the true spirit of the holidays!

Stay tuned for campaign DONATION AND DELIVERY TOTALS in next month’s Kansas Country Living, or follow us on social media for the latest updates.