“This project adds to the beautification of the great Texas city of Waco and benefits the community and MHMR in many ways,” said Richard Manning, president, Hanson Building Products North America. “This project was particularly special to the Hanson team for these reasons. It also gave us the chance to showcase our quality precast concrete products in a different fashion ~ above ground, because they are usually buried and hidden.”

Hanson is proud to have the capability to service its customers and the community while contributing to Waco’s sustainable future. Hanson donated approximately 50 water troughs from its Lorena, Texas, facility to be modified for use as planter boxes, as well as several large diameter basins to be used for rainwater harvesting. For aesthetic appeal, Hanson added a washed aggregate look to the exterior of the products. The Lorena facility’s contribution demonstrates the versatility of its products, which include an array of structures and sizes for different applications.

Patients will be able to keep their minds active and participate in an enjoyable activity by cultivating garden beds with fruits, herbs and vegetables. Once harvested, the produce will be donated to approximately 10 local area food banks including Caritas, Loaves and Fishes, Operation Assist, Hands of Mercy, and Salvation Army year-round. Hanson was contacted to take a large role in the project by Alcoa Fastening Systems, which is leading the initiative for the 90 X 150 foot garden project. There will be two phases for the “We Care” project and it is expected to be complete by fall of 2011.

“Alcoa Fastening Systems and MHMR are very proud to partner with Hanson Pipe & Precast on this wonderful community project,” said Kim Roberts, human resources director, Alcoa Fastening Systems. “Hanson has contributed largely to the garden, which will be eco-friendly with rain water conservation and composting, and a “green” example for the Waco community.”

A groundbreaking for the Heart of Texas Region MHMR Center’s Day Habilitation Facility (HOTI) “WE CARE” garden project was held March 11, 2010, at 11 a.m. at 312 South 4th Street, Waco, directly behind the HOTI main building.

Hanson Pipe & Precast is a division of Hanson Building Products North America. One of Hanson Building Products' corporate strategies is continued focus on sustainability. The company is known throughout North America for excellent occupational safety, environmental stewardship, high quality standards and contributions to its local communities.

About Hanson Pipe & Precast
Hanson Pipe & Precast is the largest manufacturer of concrete pipe and precast products in North America. With more than 3,500 employees, the company has a network of manufacturing facilities and delivery capabilities that span the continent. Hanson Pipe & Precast products are used in residential and commercial applications that support our infrastructure’s needs, including storm water drainage and water transportation. For more information, visit www.hansonpipeandprecast.com.

About Hanson Building Products North America
Hanson Building Products North America is comprised of Hanson Pipe & Precast, Hanson Pressure Pipe, Hanson Structural Precast, Hanson Brick, Hanson Hardscapes and Hanson Roof Tile. Based in Irving, Texas, Hanson Building Products North America employs approximately 4,500 people and operates 150 facilities with products available throughout the U.S. and Canada. To learn more about Hanson's sustainability efforts and quality products, services and building technology, please visit www.hansonbuildingproducts.com.

Hanson Building Products North America and its divisions are part of the HeidelbergCement Group, the global leader in aggregates with leading positions in cement, concrete and heavy building. The company employs approximately 57,000 people across five continents.