SILOAM SPRINGS, ARK. — Simmons Foods announced that it would offer COVID-19 vaccines to thousands of its employees starting this week. The company said the shots will be administered at drive-thru clinics and by the company’s network of healthcare providers and on-site medical professionals.

The clinics were made available following the state of Arkansas opening priority vaccines to food industry workers. 

“Our staff members have been working diligently to prepare for vaccines to become available, including informing and educating team members, and to move quickly to offer them to our team members,” said Russell Tooley, chief administrative officer for Simmons Foods. “We applaud Governor Hutchinson’s efforts to protect all Arkansans through an organized vaccine distribution program. We are grateful he has placed a priority on the people in food production who have worked throughout the pandemic to keep food on the table. We are actively pursuing vaccines for our team members in other states as well.”

Simmons said vaccinations will be another layer of added protection at facilities along with masks, physical barriers, social distancing, enhanced cleaning, health screenings and other provisions.

The food and pet food manufacturer was recently named among Forbes' 2021 list of America’s 500 Best Midsize Employers for going “above and beyond for their employees” throughout the pandemic, Simmons stated.

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