Hershey used his wealth to better his community

Hershey received $1,000,000 for the sale of his caramel business. He had a new discovered fortune, and he could have done anything. Hershey made the decision to use his riches to give back to his community rather than erect a massive house or live the high life. He constructed houses, a trolley system, parks, schools, churches, and recreational facilities in the community that surrounded his business and became known as Hershey, Pennsylvania.

Hershey and his wife, who were unable to have children, made it a priority to assist local children. Hershey started a school and orphanage for boys in 1909, and later added a school for girls. During the Great Depression, Hershey had buildings built so that people could have jobs in construction. During World War II, Hershey sent the troops chocolate bars to boost their morale.