FPSA announces vet-supporting, hunger-fighting charities

The campaigns have launched ahead of the upcoming EATS industry event in Chicago.

People in suits standing under DEFEAT HUNGER sign — Courtesy of FPSA

The Food Production Solutions Association (FPSA) has announced two philanthropic campaigns that will culminate at The Equipment, Automation and Technology Show for Food & Beverage (EATS), the food and beverage production trade show taking place in Chicago, October 28‒30. The dual initiative combines the newly launched Walk4Patriots campaign supporting military veterans with the continuation of FPSA's Defeat Hunger food drive.

Walk4Patriots

FPSA's Pet Food Council, in partnership with the American Humane Society, has launched Walk4Patriots, a month-long virtual Walk-A-Thon running from October 1 through November 1. The campaign aims to raise $30,000 to fund the training and placement of one expertly trained service dog through the American Humane Society's Pups4Patriots program.

According to the organization, the initiative addresses a critical need among veterans and retired first responders facing post-traumatic stress and traumatic brain injuries. These invisible wounds affect countless heroes returning home from service, and the ups4Patriots™ program provides a lifeline by matching them with specially trained service dogs that offer comfort, support, and renewed purpose at no cost to recipients.

"This project represents more than just a fundraising campaign—it's an opportunity for our industry to use our collective passion and resources to give back to those who have given so much," says Niki St. Denis, chair of the FPSA Pet Food Council. "The impact of a service dog on a veteran's life is immeasurable, providing renewed purpose, confidence, and companionship on their journey to healing."

Participants can join Walk4Patriots as individuals or form company teams, tracking their steps throughout October while raising funds for the cause. The campaign encourages community engagement through social media using the hashtag #Walk4Patriots, creating a network of supporters sharing stories, milestones, and motivation.

Defeat Hunger

Simultaneously, FPSA continues its partnership with the Greater Chicago Food Depository through the Defeat Hunger campaign. Since launching in 2013, the initiative has delivered nearly 2.5 million meals to those in need, with the most recent campaign generating more than 350,000 meals for the more than 800,000 food-insecure people in Cook County, IL.

The Greater Chicago Food Depository serves as Chicago's food bank, operating at the center of a network of more than 850 partner organizations including food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters, and mobile distributions. In Cook County, one household out of four with children faces food insecurity. The campaign reportedly provides three meals for every dollar donated, and the contributions reportedly help keep food pantries and programs stocked with fresh, nutritious, and culturally affirming foods, including produce and perishable items.

Culmination at EATS 2025

Both campaigns will reach their conclusions during EATS 2025, reportedly the only North American event covering the entire food and beverage production industry. It brings together eight key sectors for three days of networking, innovation, and solutions. According to the FPSA, the philanthropic initiatives align with the event's mission of fostering industry collaboration and community engagement.

"These campaigns reflect our commitment to meaningful philanthropy and demonstrate how our industry can come together to address critical needs in our communities," states Chris Lyons, CEO of FPSA. "Thousands of veterans work in the food industry, and our support for their needs is one way we honor them. Whether supporting our veterans or fighting hunger, we're proud to provide platforms for our members and the broader industry to make a real difference."

How to Support

Industry professionals and supporters can contribute to both campaigns through multiple channels. Online donations are available for both Walk4Patriots and Defeat Hunger, with detailed information and registration available on dedicated campaign websites. Additionally, attendees at EATS 2025 can visit FPSA's booth #4248 to make online donations and learn more about both initiatives.

Walk4Patriots participants can register as individuals or company teams, receiving digital toolkits with social media templates, engagement best practices, and step-tracking resources. Those unable to participate in the walking component can still contribute through direct donations supporting the $30,000 goal.

The Defeat Hunger campaign continues to accept contributions through its virtual food drive platform, where supporters can see the direct impact of their donations in meals provided to families throughout Cook County.

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Jenni Spinner is the chief editor of Snack Food and Wholesale Bakery with more than 25 years of experience in business-to-business communications. She has written extensively about food production, safety and packaging; pharmaceutical drug development; concrete and masonry construction; and more. She holds a Bachelor’s in Communications from the University of Illinois. Jenni can be reached at spinnerj@bnpmedia.com.