CSG Associates in Action
by Julianne Stahl, The Council of State Governments
Associates in Action articles highlight CSG Associates’ philanthropic efforts and public-private partnerships throughout the states.
International Paper, a CSG Associate, made a commitment to donate two million corrugated boxes to hunger-relief organizations amid the COVID-19 pandemic. This product donation benefited relief agencies such as Feeding America and The Global FoodBanking Network (GFN), among others in communities where International Paper employees live and work.
International Paper is a leading global producer of renewable fiber-based packaging, pulp and paper products, and it produces corrugated packaging products that protect and promote goods and enable worldwide commerce as well as pulp for diapers, tissue and other personal hygiene products that promote health and wellness, and papers that facilitate education and communication. Headquartered in Memphis, Tennessee, the company employs over 50,000 colleagues and serves more than 25,000 customers in 150 countries.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the economic impact has drastically increased the demand for food assistance. Feeding America, the nation’s largest domestic hunger-relief organization, estimated that an additional 17.1 million Americans would face hunger in early 2020 as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Global FoodBanking Network believes the coronavirus pandemic could double the number of people facing life-threatening food shortages.
International Paper also called on others to take action in their communities. The company has launched a social media campaign — #HelpFillTheBoxes — to encourage those who can donate to food banks where they live. Joining in the fight against hunger during the pandemic can be as simple as volunteering at a local food bank or donating money or resources.
“Our employees are passionate about supporting critical community needs, and we recognize that our boxes are essential for distributing food to people hit hardest by the pandemic,” said Mark Sutton, International Paper chairman and chief executive officer. “Our employees and our boxes are helping improve the ability of food banks to serve communities around the world.”
To donate to Feeding America, visit feedingamerica.org or to The Global FoodBanking Network, visit foodbanking.org/covid19. For more information about International Paper products and global citizenship efforts, please visit internationalpaper.com.