COVINGTON, Ga. - In August, General Mills, located 15200 Industrial Park Blvd. NE. in Covington, celebrated 30 years of service.

The Covington plant produces several varieties of cereal and snack products, making it "one of the most diverse in the General Mills network," Josh Anderson, plant manager, said.

In 1989, General Mills choose Newton County as a manufacturing site for several reasons, including the geographical location, according to Anderson.

"The geographical location enables us to service the southeast portion of the United States, proximity to a major interstate network, and most importantly, a highly-skilled and talented workforce," he said.

Since opening its doors, the plant has stayed active within the community, through donations to local organizations and by supporting families in need through a grant program.

"We’ve donated more than $7.2 million back to the community through organizations like the YMCA, Covington and Newton County Arts Association, Washington Street Community Center and other family and child nutrition support organizations," Anderson said.

He added, "Covington has had a very strong Hometown Grant Program since the inception of the program - formal program started in early 90s. The Covington Hometown Grant Program has impacted families and those in need with supporting over 30 community organizations over the last three decades."

The Covington plant employs more than 350 workers, and more than 20 of those employees have been working at the plant since opening day, according to Anderson.