North Side Foods Corp. Recognized for Service to State Charities, Local Community

Robert G. Hofmann, II, president of North Side Foods Corp. in Arnold, PA, was named recipient of the Edward C. Jones Community Service Award in recognition of his company’s commitment to the local community and charities throughout the state.

The award was presented at the American Meat Institute’s Annual Convention and Innovation Showcase, September 17-19, 1998 in Philadelphia, PA. In presenting the award, AMI Chairman Kenneth Taylor, president of Taylor Packing Company, Inc. in Wyalusing, PA, called North Side’s commitment to its local community “nothing less than remarkable.”

Taylor also said that the company seems to have a special love for children. In 1994, North Side committed to a five year, annual pledge of $20,000 to ensure the opening of a second Ronald McDonald House in Pittsburgh to provide housing and support to seriously ill children and their families. Beyond the monetary contribution, North Side’s staff donates significant time in supporting the daily activities of the House. In addition, the company donates more than $50,000 to Ronald McDonald’s Children’s Charities.

The company also contributes more than $20,000 annually to Friendly’s Charities, which benefits the Comprehensive Breast Program of Baystate Medical Center, the YWCA and Girl Scouts. Penn State food science students benefit from North Side’s generosity through an annual scholarship.

North Side employees were recognized previously with the Salvation Army Community Spirit Award when the company donated more than 200 Christmas presents for local underprivileged children. That’s more than one gift per company employee and each was specifically selected based on the child’s wish list. When the local little league lost its equipment and uniforms in a fire, North Side stepped in to donate the necessary funds to continue the program without interruption

Taylor said the company has a soft spot for canines too. North Side sponsors Arko, the Arnold, Pennsylvania police department’s K-9 dog, including all training and feeding costs.

“North Side’s commitment to the Arnold community is heartfelt and real,” according to Taylor. “The good that this family business has done is truly a model for all of us in the meat and poultry industry.”

AMI represents the interests of packers and processors of beef, pork, lamb, veal and turkey products and their suppliers throughout North America. Headquartered in Washington, DC, the Institute provides legislative, regulatory and public relations services, conducts scientific and economic research, offers marketing and technical assistance and sponsors education programs.