TWO OF THE AREA’S BIGGEST COMPANIES HAVE STEPPED up to contribute during the COVID-19 crisis as social distancing has ground many industries to a halt until at least the end of April.
Valero Energy Corporation (NYSE: VLO, “Valero”) and the Valero Energy Foundation committed $10,000 to support expanded shelter operations at The Salvation Army of Galveston County.
The support is part of an overall $1.8 million commitment to help people most in need primarily in cities where the company operates. In addition, Valero also is providing gas cards to selected charitable organizations to provide access to essential fuels and products for their operations.
“The health and the safety of our employees, our families and our communities are critically important,” said Joe Gorder, Valero Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “We are blessed to be able to continue supporting our community partners as we all work together to overcome this extraordinary situation.”
The Salvation Army is expanding the hours of their shelter operations for community members, and due to the current stay-at-home orders in effect, remaining open for extended hours, while practicing social distancing within the facility.
“Valero is committed to the Galveston County community, and along with the Valero Energy Foundation, we want to make sure organizations on the front lines of the COVID-19 response have the resources they need to be able to continue to provide vital services,” said Cory Moss, Vice President and General Manager of the Valero Texas City Refinery. “We appreciate the work the Salvation Army does in our community, as they seek ‘to do the most good’, especially in times of crisis.
The donation announced today represents an initial round of funding. As community needs change, Valero remains committed to helping organizations through this unprecedented situation.
Meanwhile, Cavender’s and many of its vendor partners announced a contribution to the Texas FFA Foundation for 2020 scholarships. With the cancellation of the Houston and Austin Rodeo junior livestock shows, many Texas youth, especially graduating high school seniors were at a great disadvantage this year.
These exhibitors work year-round to prepare their shows and unfortunately, have been short-changed the ability to see a return on their hard work. Many of these young people use the funds they make for college scholarships and financial aid, so to lend a helping hand, Cavender’s and vendor partners have decided to join forces with the Texas FFA Foundation in the form of scholarship support.
The $100,000 contribution was made by Cavender’s, Wrangler, Ariat, M&F Western, Durango, Cinch, Hooey and Panhandle Western Wear/Rock & Roll Denim. The 2020 scholarships will be awarded during the 92nd Texas FFA State Convention in Dallas in July.
“The scope of the Texas FFA is growing and we are honored you will be growing with us. Our students will be better leaders tomorrow because we did not allow them to be fragile today,” says Aaron Alejandro, Executive Director of the Texas FFA Foundation.
