Community Corner: 15 Years of Giving With Vans4Cans

Back in 2010, we launched a simple idea with a powerful purpose: help our neighbors facing hunger. What began as a grassroots effort has grown into something much bigger and more impactful than we could’ve imagined.

Now, after 15 years of intentional teamwork, generosity, and community support, Vans4Cans has reached an incredible milestone. This year, we came together to provide 17,185 meals for individuals and families across our communities.

Built on Heart

Giving back has always been part of who we are. Whether it’s through us visiting a customer’s home, volunteer hours, or community partnerships, we believe in showing up for others. Vans4Cans is one way we live out that mission, by turning compassion into action.

“This program is truly meaningful as the initiative holds a special place in our company’s history,” said Erin Maupin, Vice President of Support, Home Services.

“It’s part of our purpose, which is to be bigger than just tradespeople and a mechanical, plumbing, and electrical company. We want to be a place where we’re not only creating jobs but also doing purposeful things in our community.”

Every donation, every box, every van filled, has helped us move closer to a stronger, more supported community. And while our program has evolved, the heart behind it remains the same.

Fueled by Generosity

This year’s impact came from all directions. Customers gave canned goods and nonperishable items to their home services technicians, while others donated online or helped spread the word in their neighborhoods and networks. Every act of generosity helped put food on someone’s table.

“We’ve seen the issue getting worse, even during the summer months when schools open their lunchrooms so kids facing food poverty can eat,” said Charlie R., HVAC Service Technician.

“It may seem like a small gesture, but when you visit a facility and see how much food is being moved, shared, and turned into meals, it’s incredible. The scale and the impact are outstanding.”

Powered by People

To everyone who helped make this year such a success, we thank you.

From our team members to our customers to our community allies, this 15-year journey is a powerful reminder of what we can accomplish when we come together with purpose and heart.

Our Vans4Cans program is one of the many ways we live out our commitment to giving back through Lee Company Cares, and it wouldn’t be possible without the incredible support from every corner of our community.

We’re especially grateful for the partnership and support of our regional food banks and distribution partners:

This effort is a testament to the impact we can make when we show up, work together, and lead with heart, for each other and with each other.

Here’s to the lives we’ll continue to impact in the years to come.