Crum & Forster’s $10M Donation Tackles Food Insecurity, Empowers Employees

NEW YORK, NY – Crum & Forster (C&F), a leading national property and casualty insurance company, today announced a $10 million donation to Feeding America, the nation’s largest hunger-relief organization. While a substantial charitable gift on its own, the donation highlights a broader strategic shift within the insurance industry toward employee-driven philanthropy and tackling pressing social issues like food insecurity.

Beyond simply writing a check, C&F’s commitment reflects a long-standing dedication to community impact and a unique approach to corporate social responsibility (CSR) that actively engages its employees in directing charitable giving.

Addressing a Growing Need

Food insecurity remains a significant challenge in the United States, impacting millions of families. According to Feeding America, more than 34 million people, including 9 million children, are food insecure. This issue has been exacerbated by recent economic challenges, including inflation and supply chain disruptions.

“The need is great, and it’s growing,” said a spokesperson for Feeding America. “Donations like this are critical to our ability to provide food and resources to communities across the country.”

C&F’s donation will support Feeding America’s network of food banks, providing meals to those in need and helping to build a more resilient food system. The contribution is particularly timely, as food banks continue to face increased demand and dwindling resources.

A Strategic Approach to Corporate Social Responsibility

C&F’s commitment to social impact extends beyond financial contributions. The company has a long history of supporting various charitable causes, with a particular focus on food insecurity, education equity, and community development. What sets C&F apart is its dedication to empowering its employees to direct charitable giving.

Through its “C&F Cares” program, employees can recommend organizations for funding, and C&F matches both employee contributions and volunteer hours up to $10,000 per year. This program, along with a dedicated Charitable Impact Committee (CIC) comprised of employees, ensures that charitable giving aligns with the values and priorities of the C&F workforce.

“We believe that our employees are our greatest asset, and we want to empower them to make a difference in their communities,” explained a company representative. “By giving them a voice in our charitable giving, we can ensure that our resources are directed to the causes they care about most.”

Industry Trend: Employee-Driven Philanthropy

C&F’s approach to CSR is emblematic of a growing trend within the insurance industry. Companies are increasingly recognizing the importance of employee engagement in philanthropic initiatives. A recent study by a leading CSR consulting firm found that companies with strong employee engagement in CSR programs experience higher employee morale, increased productivity, and improved brand reputation.

“Employees are looking for more than just a paycheck,” said an industry analyst. “They want to work for companies that are making a positive impact on the world. Companies that can demonstrate a commitment to social responsibility are more likely to attract and retain top talent.”

Allstate, Liberty Mutual, and Nationwide are among other major insurers that have implemented employee-driven giving programs. These programs typically involve matching employee donations, providing paid volunteer time off, and offering opportunities for employees to participate in charitable events.

C&F’s Long-Term Commitment

C&F’s $10 million donation to Feeding America is not a one-time event. The company has a long history of supporting food banks and other organizations that address food insecurity. In 2022, C&F partnered with local businesses to donate $80,000 to food banks across the country. Through its CIC, C&F has provided over $1.1 million in giving to 115 organizations since 2017, many focused on combating food insecurity.

“We see this donation as an extension of our ongoing commitment to addressing food insecurity in the communities where we live and work,” said a C&F spokesperson. “We believe that everyone deserves access to nutritious food, and we are committed to doing our part to make that a reality.”

Beyond Food: A Holistic Approach to CSR

While food insecurity is a major focus, C&F’s CSR efforts extend to other areas, including education equity and community development. The company supports scholarships for students, provides funding for educational programs, and invests in community initiatives that promote economic opportunity.

“We believe that a strong community is essential for a thriving society,” said a company representative. “We are committed to investing in the communities where we operate and helping to create a brighter future for everyone.”

C&F’s approach to CSR is a model for other companies looking to make a positive impact on the world. By prioritizing employee engagement, focusing on critical social issues, and investing in long-term solutions, C&F is demonstrating that corporate social responsibility is not just good for business—it's good for society.

As one industry expert put it, “C&F is not just writing a check; they're building a movement.”