THE SECOND STEP FOUNDATION, a non-profit created by Interstate Companies Inc., recently donated $10,000 to The Salvation Army Bread of Life Assistance Center of Dickinson County. Interstate PowerSystems Branch Manager Terry Edmonds presented the check to Salvation Army Director Tara Blagec, right, and Case Manager Jennifer Witte. (Terri Castelaz/Daily News photo)

KINGSFORD — The Salvation Army Bread of Life Assistance Center of Dickinson County has been given an early Christmas gift.

The Second Step Foundation, a non-profit organization developed by Interstate Companies Inc., presented the charitable organization with a $10,000 donation.

Salvation Army Director Tara Blagec received the news through an email — totally unaware of the amount.

“We were wondering what it was, as all it said it was a generous amount,” Blagec said. “I couldn’t believe it. We are always appreciative of anything, but this will be a tremendous help for us this year.”

“We feel so honored — we have been in awe,” said Jennifer Witte, case manager. “Especially for our little town, that is huge for us.”

The local Salvation Army was among 28 recipients chosen for the donation this year.

“Our market manager reached out to all the branch managers within the Interstate Companies asking for a nomination, and we submitted them,” said Terry Edmonds, Iron Mountain branch manager for Interstate PowerSystems.

The Second Step Foundation has donated a total of $280,000 this year to local food banks across 27 markets they serve, Edmonds said.

The Second Step Foundation was formed by the family of Interstate CEO Travis Penrod as a non-profit that supports deserving charities. Their mission is focused on alleviating hunger and supporting local food shelves.

“They are committed to help feed people in the communities where Interstate employees live and work,” said Edmonds, adding last year they donated a total of $270,000.

The Salvation Army maintains a food pantry for those in need in the community all year. They also provide clients help with utilities, clothing and establishing housing, along with its several other programs that include Coats for Kids and the Angel Tree Program.

“With the holidays approaching and prices increasing to maintain the pantry, this money will go a long way,” Blagec said.

“It couldn’t come at a better time,” Witte added.

Edmonds said the founder specifically chose this time of year to help these charities.

“We are extremely grateful to Terry for the nomination and to Interstate for their generosity,” Blagec said.

Interstate Companies, headquartered in Minneapolis, operates 53 business units in facilities across 13 states in the Midwest and Rocky Mountain regions. They focus on distribution, sales and support of heavy-duty trucks, diesel engines, industrial bearing and power transmission products, industrial transmissions, power generation, transport refrigeration and other products. Interstate also provides contract assembly services and industrial labor.