The Ash Grove Cement Company recently donated $10,000 to Meals-on-Wheels of Johnson and Ellis Counties for the “Kitchen Campaign,” underway to build a regional kitchen facility. It is expected that Meals-on-Wheels will initially provide 1,200 meals at the opening of the 25,000 square foot facility, projected for the fall of 2012.

Vinsen Faris, Meals-on-Wheels executive director, said: "We are very appreciative of Ash Grove’s gift. This gift, along with others, will help us get closer to our fundraising goals.” Meals-on-Wheels plans to raise $4 million dollars for the facility’s construction. To date, $1.2 million has been raised toward the project.

The Ash Grove Cement Company (www.ashgrove.com) has established its leadership within the cement industry and has a strong and longstanding tradition of service, reliability and quality for 129 years. As the largest U.S.-owned cement company, Ash Grove produces eight million tons of cement annually from eight cement plants located across the country, including its Midlothian, Texas, plant.

The quality portland and masonry cements produced at these plants are used in the construction of highways, bridges, commercial and industrial complexes, single and multi-family homes, and a myriad of other structures fundamental to America’s economic vitality and quality of life.

“The Meals-on-Wheels ‘Kitchen Campaign’ is an important community fund-raising effort to support Ellis and Johnson County residents, and Ash Grove’s charitable foundation values the opportunity to assist Meals-on-Wheels toward its fundraising goal,” said Kevin Blankenship, Ash Grove’s Midlothian plant manager.

“We obviously have more money to raise to accomplish our goal, but with the support of individuals, foundations, and local businesses, like Ash Grove, we will get there!” said Faris. According to Mr. Faris, fundraising has been slow for the project due largely to the economy and the increased demand for services in our area. Currently, Meals-on-Wheels is serving breakfast and lunch to over 700 elderly homebound in 22 communities.

Faris continued, “But, raising this money during these times, will make this project all the more special! It is an incredible opportunity for us and the community, as it will solidify our future, and allow us to better serve those who need services. This project truly belongs to the community.”

Meals-on-Wheels is a community benefit organization serving the residents of Johnson and Ellis counties for 34 years. If you are interested in learning more about the ”Kitchen Campaign” project, volunteering your time, making a donation, or if you know of someone who could benefit from Meals-on-Wheels services, please contact the Meals-on-Wheels offices at 817-558-2840, 972-351-9943 or online at www.servingthechildrenofyesterday.org.