Social Purpose Spotlight – Low Temp Industries, Inc.

In NAFEM’s monthly Social Purpose Spotlight, one member company’s social purpose story is featured. Perhaps reading about the creativity and dedication of fellow NAFEM members will inspire you to start a program at your organization or provide some new ideas to enhance what you’re already doing.

This month, we talked to Autumn Davis, Marketing & Communications Manager, Low Temp Industries, Inc. (LTI), Jonesboro, Ga. LTI has deep roots in the local community of Clayton County since 1947. Currently, LTI supports Area in Need, an organization dedicated to helping individuals and families in need to get back on their feet and move towards a productive life. Davis explains, “We met Area in Need’s founder at a Clayton County Women in Business function where she was accepting an award. We were so inspired by what she was doing in our community that we invited her to talk to our company and began supporting the organization immediately after that meeting in May 2023.”

LTI partners with Area in Need several times a year to help in various ways. Because the organization is much more than a food bank, LTI also provides clothing, shoes, toiletries, and financial support for essential services like health testing. “LTI’s involvement includes providing the most needed food items for their pantry two-to-three times per year, raising funds to support a monthly hot meal for those living in local motels and extended stay situations, and donating to the “Because We Care” closet at the local high school,” Davis says.

A multipurpose room at the high school was transformed into a “store” containing food, beverages, toiletries, clothes and shoes. Students and staff have access to the room and its items, privately and free of charge. Additionally, LTI has joined with a local middle school to donate backpacks, holiday gifts, warm coats and any other needed items throughout the year. “It’s part of LTI’s DNA to come together when there’s a need, so it’s a perfect fit with NAFEM – together we make a huge impact,” Davis adds.

LTI has a core team that oversees social purpose efforts. The team also serves as ambassadors to help spread the word across the company. Opportunities to volunteer and/or donate are communicated via text and email and flyers are posted in high traffic areas. Davis says, “once we communicate, the items start flowing in from our generous staff. With the cash donations, we have a crew that shops for additional needed items. Team LTI always bands together for Area in Need and other outreach efforts.”

LTI encourages team members to deliver items personally and help stock the “Because We Care” closet. When associates see where donated items are going, they come back and help spread the word to their peers.  

If your organization is considering a social purpose initiative, Davis suggests, “visit your local food bank and experience a day in the life with them. It was important for LTI to partner with an organization seeking tangible items vs. monetary donations. It results in more participation because our team is incredibly passionate about serving others.”

NAFEM’s Social Purpose program, #NAFEMFightingHunger, launched its sixth year in March. Since 2020, NAFEM members have donated more than 43 million meals to neighbors in need. When members donate funds, food or volunteer time to their local Feeding America member food banks or any local food bank, NAFEM contributes matching funds.

For ideas to start or enhance your company’s efforts, visit #NAFEMFightingHunger. If you have questions or would like to be featured in a future Social Purpose Spotlight, contact NAFEM Headquarters, +1.312.821.0201.