AUSTIN, MINN. - Dealing with increased demand from the global health crisis spurred by coronavirus (COVID-19) Hormel Foods has allotted more than $4 million in bonuses to reward company employees who are working around the clock to ensure the company’s products continue to be available. 

The special bonus gives full-time employees an extra $300 and part-time employees $150. Hormel has also expanded its CARE Program employee assistance program fund, extended paid sick leave and waived waiting periods and eligibility requirements for certain benefits for its workforce. 

“As a global branded food company, we play a critical role in providing safe, high-quality food during this unprecedented time,” said Jim Snee, chairman of the board, president and chief executive officer at Hormel Foods. “Our incredible team of more than 13,000 plant professionals is the backbone of our company and this special bonus is one way we can continue to thank them for how they have risen to the challenge and continue to produce food with a sense of purpose and pride.” 

The company is also assisting with hunger relief and food insecurity spurred from COVID-19 with a pledge of $1 million in cash and product donations to global, national and local hunger-relief non-profits. Donations will be made to Feeding America, Convoy of Hope, Conscious Alliance and others.