SMITHFIELD, Va., Nov. 11, 2022 — National hot dog brand Nathan’s Famous is taking its Twitch gaming program, Nathan’s Duos, beyond the screen. Since 2020, Nathan’s Duos has matched gamers to play side-by-side to create genuine moments of connection through livestreaming events. In its continued efforts to bring people together, the program is transforming from online livestreams to in-person events to give back locally.
The brand is partnering with Twitch personality JoshOG to host Nathan’s Duos streaming events with three select gamers and help make an impact by fighting food insecurity. Together, Nathan’s Famous and JoshOG will make donations to local food banks in the areas where the professional gamers are based.
Earlier today, Nathan’s Famous and JoshOG kicked off the three-part event series, alongside fellow Duos streamer, WillerZ, with a $5,000 donation to Food Bank of the Rockies to help alleviate hunger in the Rocky Mountain area. The contribution will provide 15,000 meals and support the food bank – the largest hunger relief organization in the region – in making an even bigger impact to help feed community members in need.
In addition, JoshOG and WillerZ will participate in a Nathan’s Duo livestream, using the platform to speak to their audiences about the importance of taking the time to get out in the community and support local organizations like Food Bank of the Rockies.
“Inflation is currently at a 40-year high and is hitting Food Bank of the Rockies’ budget with some staple items costing as much as 70% more compared to last year. To meet the needs of our neighbors experiencing hunger, we are spending an additional $1.3 million or more on food purchasing every month – more than triple what we were spending pre-COVID,” said Erin Pulling, president and CEO for Food Bank of the Rockies. “We’ve been able to meet the increased demand, thanks to the generosity of companies like Nathan’s Famous. We are grateful for their inspired support in answering the challenge of hunger across our communities.”
“As an iconic brand for more than 100 years, Nathan’s has always believed in bringing people together to foster these authentic moments of connection and belonging,” said Bethany Gurecki, senior brand manager for Nathan’s Famous at Smithfield Foods. “Today’s contribution reflects these same beliefs and helps the Food Bank of the Rockies support neighbors with the resources needed to flourish, while providing equitable access to proper nourishment for all.”
“It’s been a pleasure to partner with Nathan’s Famous over the past three years through the Nathan’s Duos program and compete in livestreams with my peers,” said Josh Beaver, known as JoshOG on Twitch. “It’s also been really gratifying to be able to grow our partnership to a new, more meaningful level by helping the brand raise awareness about food insecurity here in Denver.”
“As a professional gamer, today gives me a unique opportunity to step away from my computer and get involved in my community,” said WillerZ, Twitch streamer. “I know a lot of people in our country are struggling financially right now and are not able to afford essentials like groceries. I’m thankful that I’m able to use my platform to raise awareness around this important issue.”