WEST DES MOINES, IOWA – Hy-Vee Inc. is partnering with Hormel Foods and local first responders to give away 7,500 hams to families in need in the Midwestern markets Hy-Vee serves. 

The Fifth Annual Hams for the Holidays initiative includes stops in 16 cities in April where Hy-Vee employees, alongside local law enforcement, fire and EMS, will hand out Hormel Cure 81 hams. In addition, Hy-Vee is donating truckloads of food and supplies to food banks in all markets holding a giveaway event, as well as to food banks in Hy-Vee’s newly announced markets of Indianapolis, Louisville and Nashville.  

“The last two years have been very challenging and many are still struggling with food insecurity,” said Randy Edeker, Hy-Vee’s chairman and CEO. “We are fortunate to have great partners who share Hy-Vee’s passion for giving back to the community. Since 2017, Hy-Vee’s Hams for the Holidays events have been an incredible way for us to help thousands of our neighbors in need. We look forward to working with our local first responders and continuing our efforts this spring to directly impact those in communities we serve.” 

Sixteen giveaway events are scheduled this week where hams will be available via drive-thru or walk-up, depending on location. Over the course of the last five years, Hy-Vee and Hormel have partnered to provide more than 20,000 Hormel Cure 81 hams to those in need. 

“Hy-Vee and Hormel Foods are proud to continue our partnership to support hunger relief efforts in our community locations,” said Eric Jacobson, Hormel Cure 81 brand manager at Hormel Foods. “Hy-Vee Hams for the Holidays and our Hormel Cure 81 Hams for Hunger program have made the opportunity for families in need to enjoy a delicious holiday meal a reality.”