Community Outreach and Holiday Luncheon | Metrolina Greenhouses
Metrolina Greenhouses has announced a record-breaking donation of more than $1,000,000 to local charities and community initiatives in 2024. Rooted in commitment to its employees, their families, and the surrounding communities, the company continues to prioritize giving back through financial contributions, volunteer efforts, and disaster relief initiatives.
2024 Contributions Overview
In addition to $750,000 in regular charitable donations, Metrolina Greenhouses’ 2024 giving efforts included:
$100,000 in Hurricane Helene Relief Efforts
Following the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina and other affected communities, Metrolina Greenhouses, led by its Community Outreach Committee, contributed $100,000 to various organizations, including:
These contributions supported critical recovery efforts, helping rebuild lives and infrastructure.
$100,000 from the Benevolent Fund & Community Outreach Committee
Metrolina’s Benevolent Fund provided financial assistance to employees facing personal challenges, while the Community Outreach Committee – a volunteer employee group – allocated additional funds, along with time and hands-on volunteer work, to local organizations dedicated to community development and support.
$70,000 in College Scholarships
Recognizing the importance of education, Metrolina Greenhouses awarded $70,000 in scholarships this year to employees’ family members pursuing higher education.
Support Beyond Financial Giving
Adopt a Highway in York, SC | Metrolina Greenhouses
Metrolina also extended its support beyond monetary donations. When one of its partner growers in Western North Carolina was severely impacted by flood waters from Hurricane Helene, the company stepped in to grow and ship 100,000 poinsettias free of charge. The effort helped the partner operation restore its systems and prepare for the upcoming spring season.
“Everybody here helped with that in one way or another,” says co-CEO Art VanWingerden, addressing the team at the year-end business meeting.
“Whether you grew, spaced, or shipped them, no matter what you did, everybody helps, and we can take pride in knowing that we helped another greenhouse get through this.”
Additionally, many Metrolina employees personally donated time, resources, and funds, while others traveled to hurricane-affected areas to assist friends and family with recovery efforts.
“We are thankful for our employees’ efforts,” says co-CEO Abe VanWingerden. “Their acts of kindness and resilience have been both moving and inspiring.”
“Metrolina is more than a greenhouse — we’re a team rooted in compassion and committed to our community. We are grateful to our dedicated employees who helped make these initiatives possible. Together, we remain committed to helping our communities rebuild and thrive.”
