For Crum & Forster (C&F), supporting communities where their employees live and work is fundamental.
C&F focuses their philanthropic programs in three ways: national initiatives, local community support and employee-driven giving. This approach allows C&F, a Feeding America Leadership Partner, to help make a difference, while supporting causes that matter most to their employees, based on employee-driven input.
In 2021, C&F employees clearly identified the urgent need for food support.
“Our team recognized that food banks and pantries offer one of the most direct and meaningful ways to make an impact locally,” said Barbra Katz, Chief Human Resources Officer for Crum & Forster. “We believe food security is the foundation of strong, resilient communities. Through our partnership with Feeding America, we are helping to expand local support networks and ensure more individuals and families have reliable access to nutritious food and vital resources.”
Philanthropy of Trust
The partnership with Feeding America and C&F’s broader commitment to hunger relief is rooted in a “philanthropy of trust” philosophy.
This means C&F provides support without strings attached, because they believe in partnering with organizations to allocate resources where they’re needed most. This approach is not just about writing a check; it’s about trusting partners to make the biggest impact possible for neighbors who may be struggling to put food on the table.
C&F actively supports network members in the places where their employees live and work. By having this local focus, C&F strengthens their connection to their communities and ensures their philanthropic efforts directly benefit their neighbors.
Volunteerism also is woven into their culture, with C&F promoting and encouraging employees to get involved—whether through food packing events, local food drives or other charitable activities.
“These efforts not only help those in the community but also foster a spirit of teamwork and purpose across C&F,” Katz said. “We’ve seen how stepping outside our normal routines to help others brings people together and inspires a sense of gratitude and community.”
Looking Ahead
C&F is committed to making hunger relief a cornerstone of their philanthropic mission and advancing support for Feeding America network members, be it through more volunteer opportunities, expanded grants or deeper local engagement.
Ultimately, C&F’s approach is about trust, flexibility and community. Providing unrestricted support to Feeding America and food banks is a testament to their belief in letting local experts make the best decisions for their communities. Feeding America is grateful to every C&F employee who contributes to these efforts—because together, we’re making a real difference for neighbors facing hunger.
