Perfetti Van Melle Makes “Sweet” Donation to Caritas Resource Center
Rockford, IL – (Oct. 2, 2024) This week, Perfetti Van Melle has made a $20,000 donation to Caritas Community Resource Center as part of the company’s “Sweetening Our Communities” campaign. The global confectionery manufacturer, known for brands such as Airheads Mentos, Trident, and more, acquired the gum business of Mondelēz International in North America and Europe in 2023, which included the gum factory and brands in Rockford.
“This month marks the one-year anniversary of the newest chapter of our factory that has been part of this community since 1956,” said Josh Hann, Plant Manager. “We are so pleased to invest Caritas and are grateful for the difference they are making in the lives of children and families in the Greater Rockford area where our employees live and work.”
While the company may be new to Rockford, giving back to the community has always been part of the Perfetti Van Melle identity and core values. Since Oct. 2023, Perfetti has been a key sponsor in Rockford of the Diamonds storytelling gala, donated to local charities including the Shoeboxes for Soldiers campaign, supported the Rockford Rescue Mission, and participated in the Loves Park community holiday parade.
“We are incredibly grateful for this generous donation from Perfetti Van Melle,” said Max Dodson, Executive Director of Caritas Community Resource Center. “This contribution will enhance our ability to serve the local community and further our mission to provide food and children’s clothing to our neighbors in need.”
Representatives from Perfetti Van Melle and Caritas met on Oct. 1 for a check presentation. Pictured in the photo above from L-R are: Jackie Jackson, Vice President Board of Directors, Caritas; Ed Robbins Personnel Officer, Caritas; Max Dodson, Executive Director, Caritas; Kerrie Hruska, Safety Health and Environment Coordinator, Perfetti Van Melle.
About Perfetti Van Melle
Perfetti Van Melle (PVM) is a privately owned company that manufactures and distributes confectionery and chewing gum in more than 150 countries. PVM is a global leader in the confectionery industry, thanks to delighting consumers around the world with its innovative, diverse, and most loved products.
The company boasts a diverse portfolio of iconic local and internationally recognized brands cherished by generations such as Mentos, Chupa Chups, Alpenliebe, Airheads, Center, Fruit-tella, Big Babol, Vivident, Golia, Vigorsol, Smint and Frisk. In addition, Trident, Hollywood, Dentyne, Stimorol, V6 and Bubblicious in the United States, Canada, and Europe. In 2023 Perfetti Van Melle Group reported net sales close to € 3.5 billion. U.S. operations are based in Erlanger, KY with factories in Erlanger and Rockford, IL.
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CONTACT:
Casey Kroger, Communications Manager
Casey.Kroger@PerfettiVanMelle.com