Hobart, Baxter and Hobart Service are supporting the “Today” show’s Al Roker as he packs up a Penske truck and hits the road for the annual “Lend a Hand” trip, a traveling charity campaign.
Roker, with help from foodservice equipment manufacturers Hobart, Baxter and Hobart Service, presented new commercial kitchen equipment to Community Kitchens of Birmingham, Alabama, a nonprofit organization dedicated to feeding the hungry. The equipment will help the organization better serve those in need of a hot meal.
Hobart donated a slicer, salad dryer, mixer and food processor, and Baxter donated a hybrid convection oven. This foodservice equipment should help Community Kitchens increase efficiency and prepare and cook more high-quality, healthy meals for more individuals faster than ever before.
“Hobart and Baxter’s commitment to sustainability goes beyond equipment; the companies also support worthwhile organizations that are making a difference,” said Tom Szafranski, President, ITW Food Equipment Group-Commercial. “Providing the Community Kitchens of Birmingham with quality foodservice equipment to help the organization help others is one example of how we support community programs tailored to local needs.”
In its 10th consecutive year, “Lend a Hand” continues its mission to help small charities across the country that work toward improving conditions in their communities. In each city, Roker surprises a deserving charity with trucks full of goods and supplies.
The “Today” show has raised a record-breaking $7 million in donations so far for this year’s trip, with more on the way. This year marks the largest amount of contributions ever for the “Lend a Hand” campaign.