BRYN MAWR, PA — Essential Utilities Inc. (NYSE: WTRG) has successfully completed its fourth annual Fall for Food Banks initiative, a company-wide effort aimed at addressing hunger and supporting communities across its nine-state footprint. This year’s program mobilized employees, strengthened partnerships with food banks, and made meaningful strides in combating food insecurity.
A key highlight of the initiative was the active participation of 240 employees, who collectively volunteered 765 hours across 34 service events. These included stocking food pantries, preparing meals, and hosting food drives. Essential Utilities, along with its subsidiaries Aqua and Peoples, partnered with nearly 60 local organizations during the initiative and made a significant impact through food donations, volunteerism, and monetary contributions.
The Essential Foundation played a pivotal role by donating over $250,000 to causes dedicated to alleviating food insecurity. “Our team is deeply committed to improving the lives of our neighbors in the communities we serve,” said Chris Franklin, Chairman and CEO of Essential Utilities. “Fall for Food Banks empowers us to make a tangible difference in the lives of those facing food insecurity. Together, we’re demonstrating the power of collective action to drive meaningful change.”
Local food banks praised the impact of the initiative. Jeff Howard, Director of Development at the Chester County Food Bank, shared his gratitude for Essential’s efforts. “During the holiday season, we serve over 3,400 families, providing enhanced meals to help them celebrate with dignity and joy. This vital work wouldn’t be possible without partners like Essential. The Essential Foundation’s generous donation will make a profound impact on our efforts to combat food insecurity and support our neighbors in Chester County.”
Since launching Fall for Food Banks in 2021, Essential Utilities has donated over $800,000 to charitable organizations fighting hunger. Nearly 650 employees have volunteered 2,100 hours, supporting more than 150 organizations. The initiative underscores Essential’s commitment to providing life-sustaining resources while earning recognition, including being named to Newsweek’s Most Responsible Companies list for the fourth consecutive year.
Fall for Food Banks has become a vital component of Essential’s mission to enhance quality of life in the communities it serves while showcasing the power of collective action in addressing critical social challenges.
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