Flying Food Group CEO: 100% of taxable income 'contributed annually to The Sue Ling Gin Foundation Trust'

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Flying Food Group, Inc. CEO David Cotton | flyingfoodgroup.com

By Sky Industry News

Dec 31, 2024

Flying Food Group's CEO, David Cotton, has reiterated the company's commitment to philanthropy through the Sue Ling Gin Foundation Trust. In an interview with Sky Industry News on December 30, Cotton said that "FFG directs 100% of its taxable income to the Sue Ling Gin Foundation," ensuring that the legacy of founder Sue Ling Gin is preserved by funding initiatives in healthcare, education, and community support.

"At Flying Food Group, we take immense pride in that 100% of our taxable income is contributed annually to The Sue Ling Gin Foundation Trust," said Cotton. "This unique approach allows us to honor the legacy and values of our founder, Sue Ling Gin, by directly supporting impactful initiatives in healthcare, education, community safety and support, legal assistance, and immigration rights."

According to Cotton, it is crucial to maintain the philanthropic vision of Gin, who passed away in 2014. The foundation supports a range of charitable efforts focusing on education, healthcare, legal assistance, and immigration rights. It funds scholarships, health clinics, and local organizations. The trust was established by Gin to ensure ongoing philanthropy and includes initiatives like free health clinics for employees and the broader community. These contributions reflect Gin’s dedication to Chicago and her belief in accessible education and healthcare for all.

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The Sue Ling Gin Foundation Trust has made significant donations to various causes. Recently, it contributed $21 million to Chicago CRED (Creating Real Economic Destiny), a program aimed at reducing violence in underserved neighborhoods such as North Lawndale, Roseland, and Pullman. This donation forms part of Flying Food Group's broader philanthropic commitment which also included a $20 million gift to the Field Museum for educational programs.

At the Field Museum's annual gala, it was announced that this donation would support educational programs serving thousands of students as part of a larger $40 million fundraising campaign. In recognition of these contributions, the museum named its education center after Sue Ling Gin and awarded the Trust with the Marshall Field V Award for Distinguished Leadership.

David Cotton has been instrumental in Flying Food Group's growth since joining as CFO two decades ago before becoming CEO. With academic credentials from the University of Chicago and Yale University, he continues to expand FFG's customer base and locations.

Founded in 1983 by Sue Ling Gin, Flying Food Group partners with over 70 international airlines providing in-flight dining experiences from more than 15 kitchen facilities across the United States. The company emphasizes culinary creativity and cultural authenticity while aiming to deliver restaurant-quality meals.