January 21, 2005
State Lawmakers Subject of New Nutrition, Hunger Initiative
The UPS Foundation provides $250,000 to educate, connect state legislators
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The National Conference of State Legislatures has been awarded a $250,000 grant from The UPS Foundation, the charitable arm of UPS. The grant will be used to engage state lawmakers in efforts to reduce hunger and improve nutrition.
The new program, entitled Public-Private Partners to Address Nutrition and Hunger: Building State Capacity, will work across public and private sectors and across disciplines to enhance the ability of state policymakers to respond to the challenge of hunger and improving nutrition in their communities. Specifically, the project will forge local partnerships that will expand the base of expertise available to state decision-makers and provide a mechanism for sharing common challenges and models for possible solutions.
“NCSL is extremely excited to partner with The UPS Foundation on this very important initiative,” said Texas Senator Leticia Van de Putte, NCSL’s vice-president. “Raising the awareness of state policymakers on issues of nutrition and hunger is a worthy cause and one that has far reaching consequences.”
The Building Capacity Project will support knowledge development through NCSL’s extensive cadre technical assistance programs including publications and networking opportunities. The project will:
- Conduct focus group meetings to assess legislators’ awareness of hunger and nutrition policies;
- Arrange site visits to allow state lawmakers to see firsthand innovative solutions to combating hunger and improving nutrition;
- Coordinate meetings and seminars about the issues at NCSL meetings; and
- Identify next steps and future opportunities for state leadership in initiatives to reduce hunger and promote nutrition.
Established in 1951 and based in Atlanta, Georgia, The UPS Foundation identifies specific areas where its support clearly impacts social issues. In support of this strategic approach, The UPS Foundation has identified literacy, hunger and volunteerism as its focus areas. In 2003, The UPS Foundation distributed nearly $40 million worldwide through grants such as the Building Capacity Project.
“UPS and its employees have a longstanding commitment to the communities where we live and work. Philanthropy and employee volunteerism are a part of the company’s culture,” said Evern Cooper, president of The UPS Foundation and vice president of UPS corporate relations. “Together with our nonprofit partners, we work to make a positive impact on the lives of people in need. UPS’s support of the National Conference of State Legislatures signifies our shared focus and commitment to improve our communities.”
NCSL is a bipartisan organization serving the legislators and legislative staff of the states, commonwealths and territories. Its mission is to improve the quality and effectiveness of state legislatures, foster interstate communication and provide the states a strong, cohesive voice in the federal system.
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