As presenting sponsor of the annual rivalry games known as the Commonwealth Clash, Smithfieldunited with the University of Virginia and Virginia Tech to recognize two local Virginia food banks for their commitment to providing communities with accessible nourishment through food pantries and meals. As an extension of Smithfield's Helping Hungry Homes program, the brand donated over 60,000 pounds of protein — more than 240,000 servings — to the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank and Feeding Southwest Virginia during the 2022–2023 school year to aid in hunger relief efforts for children, seniors and families.
"As a Virginia-based brand and longtime supporter of the University of Virginia and Virginia Tech athletic departments, we're excited to be sponsoring the Commonwealth Clash for another year and collaborating with both schools on community outreach events," said Jonathan Toms, senior community development manager for Smithfield Foods. "We want to thank the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank and Feeding Southwest Virginia for their tireless commitment to lighten the burden of food insecurity for many families. We look forward to providing relief to our home state for many years to come."