Valero's Hartley ethanol plant recently distributed $20,000 to local charities from funds raised through the Valero Texas Open (VTO) and Valero Benefit for Children (BFC).

This year the tournament and associated events, including the BFC, raised more than $16 million in net proceeds for charitable organizations across the U.S., including those in northwest Iowa. The tournament is ranked No. 1 in charitable giving on the PGA Tour this year.

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South O'Brien Backpacks for Kids representatives Renae Negus, Mike Morran, Kraig Kruger and Jen Griffin accept a $10,000 donation check from Valero Renewables – Hartley plant manager Kraig Kruger.

"Valero is honored to be part of the tournament's legacy of giving back through the generous support of our business partners and sponsors," said Valero Chairman and CEO Joe Gorder in a news release. "With our long-standing relationship through the BFC, the tournament has helped raise more than $187 million for charities, positively impacting many lives in the communities where we operate across the United States."

"We're driven to make a difference for our community," said Kraig Kruger, plant manager of Valero's Hartley ethanol plant. "We're proud to continue supporting these agencies and all they do to improve children's lives in Northwest Iowa."

The 2021 Valero Benefit for Children local recipients are: South O'Brien Backpacks for Kids, Primghar, $10,000; Kid's Backpack Program, Hartley, $10,000.

The VTO is poised to celebrate its 100th anniversary March 28-April 4, 2022.