The Food Production Solutions Association (FPSA) announced two major philanthropic campaigns that will reach their crescendo at The Equipment, Automation and Technology Show for Food & Beverage (EATS), a North American food and beverage production trade show. 

The dual initiative combines the newly launched Walk4Patriots campaign supporting military veterans with the continuation of FPSA’s highly successful Defeat Hunger food drive, demonstrating the association’s commitment to addressing critical community needs.

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

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 Pups4Patriots 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,” said Niki St. Denis, Chair of the FPSA Pet Food Council, in a statement. “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 this vital cause. The campaign encourages community engagement through social media using the hashtag #Walk4Patriots.

Simultaneously, FPSA continues its partnership with the Greater Chicago Food Depository through the Defeat Hunger campaign, building on more than a decade of success. 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, Illinois.

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, making this partnership particularly vital for the community hosting EATS.

With every dollar donated, three meals are provided because of the Food Depository’s wholesale purchasing power. These contributions help keep food pantries and programs stocked with fresh, nutritious, and culturally affirming foods including produce and perishable items.

Both campaigns will reach their exciting conclusions during EATS 2025, taking place Oct. 28-30 in Chicago. EATS represents North America’s only event covering the entire food and beverage production industry, bringing together eight key sectors for three days of networking, innovation and solutions. The philanthropic initiatives align perfectly 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,” said Chris Lyons, CEO of FPSA, in a statement. “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.”

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 No. 4248 to make online donations and learn more about both initiatives.