“One of Hunt Brothers Pizza’s guiding principles is to be a blessing to people, so it’s only natural for us to help the people and communities affected by these tragic events,” says Hunt Brothers spokesperson.

In an act of compassion for the communities hit by devastating tornadoes this spring, Hunt Brothers Pizza donated $20,000 in June to support the ongoing relief efforts.

Some of the $20,000 was raised by NASCAR fans who donated money while sampling Hunt Brothers Pizza at the Charlotte Motor Speedway Top Gear 300 and Coca-Cola 600 races in late May. Additional funds came from corporate contributions.

“Thank you to all of the NASCAR fans who gave so generously to help the relief efforts in Missouri and the southern states,” said Erin Hunt Ferguson, chief culture officer at Hunt Brothers Pizza, which has more than 6,000 locations in 28 states.

“One of Hunt Brothers Pizza’s guiding principles is to be a blessing to people, so it’s only natural for us to help the people and communities affected by these tragic events.”

Half of the donations benefit the American Red Cross’s disaster recovery fund, and the other half assists the American Red Cross efforts in Joplin, Mo.

In addition to providing financial support, convenience store operators at three stores in Joplin, Mo., are lending a hand by baking Hunt Brothers Pizzas and donating them to hungry relief workers and community members. Hunt Brothers Pizza also partnered with Day Star Church in Cullman, Ala., to cook and distribute pizzas to the community.

“Many of the communities that were hit hardest by the tornadoes are the same communities where Hunt Brothers Pizza has a strong presence,” said Hunt Ferguson. “We want to do everything we can to help these communities get back on their feet.”