Scotsman Helps NBC's "Today" Show "Lend a Hand" to Birmingham Charity

June 16, 2011

VERNON HILLS, Ill.— June 16, 2011—Scotsman Ice Systems helped NBC’s “Today” show’s Al Roker “Lend a Hand” to one Birmingham charity that provides meals to the hungry. Scotsman donated and installed two new nugget ice machines for The Community Kitchens of Birmingham as part of “Today’s” goodwill road trip, a campaign that surprises small charities around the country with well-deserved donations. 

Roker unveiled the donations earlier today, during the Birmingham stop on “Today’s”10th annual charity tour. In addition to the ice machines, Scotsman dealer Bresco provided steel tables, knives, bowls and roasting pans.

“Getting involved with ‘Lend a Hand’ to provide much-needed ice machines to The Community Kitchens of Birmingham was an easy decision,” said Mark McClanahan, president, Scotsman Ice Systems. “Helping Community Kitchens provide chilled beverages to the people it serves is an important way we can give back.”

Each year Roker hits the road in a Penske truck for “Lend a Hand,” providing donations to help selected charities improve their communities. According to “Today,” “Lend a Hand” began in 2002, as a way to jump-start smaller, lesser-known charities that lost donations as money was shifted to September 11 philanthropic efforts. “Lend a Hand” encourages viewers to give locally and work to improve their own communities.

The Community Kitchens of Birmingham is a nonprofit organization dedicated to feeding and serving the hungry, homeless and working poor 365 days a year. For more information, please visit www.thecommunitykitchens.org.

To watch coverage of the event, visit http://on.today.com/kTymJy.

About Scotsman Ice Systems
As one of the world’s largest manufacturers of ice systems, with more than 300 models of ice machines, storage bins, and ice and water dispensers, Scotsman is dedicated to developing today’s most innovative ice solutions. In 2011, Scotsman earned the Award for Excellence in Energy-Efficient Product Design by ENERGY STAR®. Offering more than 60 ENERGY STAR® qualified models, Scotsman Prodigy® ice machines incorporate superior designs which reduce energy and water consumption, making a difference for the environment and the bottom line. Also, in 2010, Scotsman was the recipient of the Overall Best-in-Class award from Foodservice Equipment & Supplies magazine, as well as the Best-in-Class award as voted by Dealers. For more information, visit www.scotsman-ice.com.