INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (WOWO): Monday afternoon, Governor Mike Pence accepted a donation from representatives of the Indiana State Poultry Association of 130,000 pounds, or 65 tons, of Indiana poultry products for Hoosier food pantries.

As we near the holiday season, the importance of helping our fellow Hoosiers cannot be overstated,” said Governor Pence. “I commend the work of the Indiana State Poultry Association, whose generosity and compassion will help to combat hunger and make a difference in the lives of our neighbors in need across Indiana this Thanksgiving.”

According to a press release, the donation took place during a ceremony at the Indiana Statehouse. Poultry producers will be delivering products to their local food pantries throughout the state over the next several weeks.

Indiana State Poultry Association’s Executive Vice President Paul Brennan noted, “Indiana’s poultry producers benefit the Hoosier economy and contribute to the state and their local communities through donations. This event alone has occurred for 67 consecutive years.”