Bimbo Bakeries USA (BBU) announced this week that it was launching a new initiative to combat racial inequity and injustice. In addition, the company also formed a Racial Equity Action Council and appointed Nikki Lang as its first Head of Diversity, Equity & Belonging.
As part of its efforts, the Horsham, PA-based segment of Mexico City-based Grupo Bimbo SAB de CV has committed $1 million to national and local organizations dedicated to furthering the education, financial well-being and health of Black and minority Americans.
The company's commitment includes $500,000 dedicated to the United Negro College Fund. Through the partnership, BBU will provide scholarships as well as create an internship program and participate in the UNCF Student Leadership Conference. The company is also committing $500,000 to nonprofit organizations throughout the country including:
- The Lebron James Family Foundation
- 100 Black Men of the Bay Area
- The Fund for the School District of Philadelphia
“It is important to us that our partnerships extend beyond a financial donation," said Fred Penny, president of Bimbo Bakeries USA. "Our Racial Equity Action Council has been instrumental in identifying organizations where BBU and our associates can make a real difference. We look forward to identifying additional partners and beginning our work with these organizations."
In addition to its financial impact, Nikki Lang has been named the company’s first Head of Diversity, Equity & Belonging. Lang has been with the company for 14 years and previously served as BBU’s Director of eCommerce as well as serving on BBU’s Diversity, Equity & Belonging Steering Committee.
“Over the last nine months, it became clear that creating sustained and meaningful change in this area requires dedicated leadership and resources,” Penny said. “Nikki was the ideal person for this role, and I look forward to the progress her leadership will bring.”
Lang will also partner and collaborate with leaders across BBU to ensure that the principles of diversity, equity and belonging are embedded in all of the company’s decision-making.
