By Ed Nicholson
Ethel Shepherd is the Tyson Hunger All-Star of the Month for October. You can read Ethel's inspiring story here, but in brief, for the past 25 years, she has been collecting and distributing food for those at risk of hunger in her home town of Mountain Grove, Missouri.
In the past nine years, as Tyson Foods has become increasingly involved in hunger relief, we've encountered hundreds of "Ethels" around the country: inspiring people who are working selflessly, innovatively and creatively to end hunger in their own communities. We created the Hunger All-Star program to honor and recognize the work of these people. Because they deserve it. Because they inspire others to become involved. Because they make a difference.
Perhaps you know someone like Ethel. We would encourage you to nominate them here as a Hunger All-Star. Even if they're not selected as a Hunger All-Star of the Month, if they've made a valid contribution, we'll put your nomination up on this site as recognition. If they are selected as Hunger All-Star of the Month, the Feeding America food bank serving their area will receive a truckload of Tyson products, donated in their honor.
On Monday, Ethel Shepherd received the Hunger All-Star of the Month Award at Ozarks Food Harvest Food Bank in Springfield. She honored us all by celebrating her 80th birthday at the award ceremony. And she's still going strong.