ATCHISON, Kan., January 8, 2014—The local Salvation Army’s Christmas Store drive, Adopt-A-Family program and Red Kettle drive were among various initiatives in which MGP and company personnel recently participated to help make the holidays brighter for Atchison area persons in need.

Collection barrels placed inside MGP’s corporate office building and protein and starch facility last month were filled by employees with donations ranging from new toys to hats, gloves, blankets and stocking stuffers, as well as non-perishable food items. In conjunction with this drive, the company contributed funds in the amount of $2,500.

In supporting the Salvation Army’s Adopt-A-Family program, employees raised approximately $750 to go toward the purchase of gift and food items for a local family of eight. Preceding the launch of this program, nearly 20 employees took turns volunteering their time in early December to ring bells while manning a donation kettle inside ALPS at 404 Commercial St.

The Red Kettle has become a widely-recognized symbol of the Christmas holiday season, representing hope by raising funds to assist needy families, seniors and homeless individuals.  Money contributed toward this annual drive provides emergency assistance for utilities, rent, prescriptions, food and clothing.

“MGP is very proud of the highly considerate and generous support of our employees in helping the Salvation Army address the needs of less fortunate residents of the area,” said Dave Rindom, vice president of human resources. “Their widespread participation and contributions of funds, other necessities and time demonstrate a genuine concern for the plight of others and a sincere desire to ease the burden of families and individuals experiencing financially stressful situations.”