By TIM ALEXANDER
Illinois Correspondent

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — As the U.S. economy continues to show little sign of reversing its downward spiral, the Pork Power program sponsored by the Illinois Pork Producers Association (IPPA, along with the Illinois Corn Marketing Board, Illinois Association of Meat Processors and the Illinois Food Bank Association (IFBA) – has taken on newfound importance.

The alliance, known as the Illinois Pork Partnership, has begun accepting donated hogs for processing and distribution to those less fortunate across the state. Last year, Illinois pork producers responded to the program by donating over 100,000 pounds of pork to the eight regional food banks associated with the IFBA.
“The current economic conditions have more people seeking food assistance. This program has been a true blessing for food banks in Illinois and we are very appreciative of the continued efforts of the Pork Power partners,” said Kristy Gilmore, spokesperson for the Bloomington-based Central Illinois Foodbank.

Tim Maiers, public relations director for the IPPA, told Farm World the partnership has enrolled 23 participating Pork Power processors for this year’s campaign, which runs through July 31. Producers interested in enrolling in the program can simply call a processor and state their intent to deliver pigs for the program.

“Producers can come to our website (www.ilpork.com) and see the list of processors.

From there they can contact the closest processor to them and let them know they’d like to donate some pigs to the program,” Maiers explained. “(Producers) can donate just one pig, or up to 10 or 15 at one time.

Any market hogs over 160 pounds will be accepted, and sows, but we’re not accepting any boars.”

Those who donate pigs will receive certification of their donation for tax purposes.

“Producers will receive at drop-off a sheet to fill out with their name and address. The processor will complete the form with how many pounds of pork were generated from the pigs and the producer can then use the form for tax purposes as a charitable contribution,” said Maiers.

Many producers and processors who have participated in the program in the past have found the greatest value of the program is the feeling of helping their neighbors in need, Maiers explained. “This has been a great program that has allowed producers to make a broad impact through the food banks in Illinois. It’s something producers are committed to being a part of, even as many of them are struggling financially themselves,” he said.
See the IPPA’s website or contact Maiers at 217-656-3981 for more information.