Battelle donates over $100k to local food banks

RICHLAND, Wash. - In a response to the spread of COVID-19 in Benton and Franklin county, Battelle in Richland is donating $103,000 to food banks and other health and human services organizations.

The donation comes after a committee at Battelle deemed it essential in this time of need. Paula Linnen from Battelle's Laboratory for External Affairs spoke to 610 KONA in a phone interview Tuesday afternoon, "We recognize that food is so incredibly important." Funds will also be donated to Meals on Wheels.

In addition to the donation, Linnen said the company is working with local caterers to provide meals to first responders. "Restaurants are struggling so we thought we could throw a little business their way and at the same time, help support those first responders with some meals when they're working long shifts."