Spam
SPAM is taking its Operation Gratitude across the country. 
NEW YORK – Hormel Foods Corp., the Austin, Minnesota-based makers of SPAM, and organizers behind Operation Gratitude have partnered to bring their letter-writing campaign to 16 communities in support of a goal to send Operation Gratitude’s 2 millionth care package to members of the military in 2018. Care packages, including a letter, SPAM products and other items, will be sent to troops overseas, as well as veterans, first responders and new recruits.

 

Sunny Anderson, Food Network host and US Air Force veteran, will join the tour again and showcase her new recipe, operation SPAM Gravy with Biscuits while supporting the Operation Gratitude cause.

"We're honored to partner with Operation Gratitude for the return of the SPAMERICAN Tour," said Jennifer L. Nolander, SPAM brand manager. "The SPAM brand has a long tradition of supporting our nation's military at home and abroad beginning with World War II, and we are honored to bring aboard a veteran like Sunny Anderson to help Operation Gratitude achieve its mission by providing an easy way for communities to give back to those who proudly serve us every day."

"Each year, Operation Gratitude sends over 200,000 Care Packages to our nation's heroes, and out of all of the items included in these packages, among the most cherished are the hand-written notes and letters," said Emily Rich, Director of National Development. "By working with the SPAM brand, we have the chance to bring our letter-writing campaign to communities across the country."

Recipe samples from local chefs such as the "Father of Southern Cuisine" Dean Fearing, James Beard pastry chef Gale Gand and noted TV chef Chris Kyler, will be given out in communities along the tour. Unique dishes like Cinnamon Crusted SPAM with Apricot Jam Drizzle, Barbeque SPAM Jalapeño Tacos with Pineapple Salsa and SPAM Bánh mí will be served along with Anderson’s dish across the country.

"As a host and passionate foodie who likes to experiment with taste and flavor, I've long been a fan of the creative possibilities that come from working with SPAM products. My recipe, Operation SPAM Gravy with Biscuits, was inspired by my southern heritage and military brat roots, and I think it really captures the spirit of this year's SPAMERICAN Tour," said Sunny Anderson. "As an Air Force veteran, it means a lot to team up with Operation Gratitude's mission, offering thousands of people the opportunity to send notes of support and appreciation to the brave men and women who serve our country."