GIANT Food Stores customers donate $550,000 during Hunger Action Month to fight hunger in local communities

In recognition of Hunger Action Month, GIANT Food Stores and MARTIN’S Food Markets customers supported local regional food banks by donating $550,998 at the checkout through the grocers’ in-store Bag Hunger campaign. The Fall Bag Hunger campaign ran August 31 – September 13 and is the second in-store campaign GIANT/MARTIN’S conducted for hunger relief efforts this year.

“A big thank you goes out to our generous customers who have joined us in the fight against hunger,” said Tom Lenkevich, GIANT/MARTIN’S president. “Hunger has become a reality for far too many and our regional food banks continue to report unprecedented demand and increasing pressure to secure funding and donations year round.”

Major recipient food banks include:

• Blue Ridge Area Food Bank in Virginia – $16,900
• Central Pennsylvania Food Bank – $43,382
• FeedMore - Central Virginia Food Bank – $15,489
• Greater Berks County Food Bank – $10,266
• Maryland Food Bank, Western Branch – $10,566
• Philabundance – $52,866
• Second Harvest Food Bank of Lehigh Valley – $17,609
• Water Street Rescue Mission in Lancaster – $13,127

Throughout September, GIANT partnered with Unilever to help those who struggle with hunger by collaborating with the Olivet Boys and Girls Clubs and the Greater Berks Food Bank at a Healthy Kids Summit in Reading, PA. GIANT Nutritionist Sarah Glunz participated in the panel where kids were quizzed on healthy eating. A group exercise session took place and a wholesome dinner prepared by a Knorr chef was served. GIANT and Unilever also conducted a Stuff-a-Truck event at the Havertown store.

“Our partnership with GIANT/MARTIN’S has had a meaningful impact on the local community and we continue to collaborate with GIANT/MARTIN’S and Feeding America in support of hunger-relief initiatives,” said Rob Gelbach, Team Lead, Unilever. “Food insecurity is growing among American families so it is important to Unilever that we support the people struggling with hunger in our own communities. By partnering with organizations like Feeding America and its member food banks we are able to improve the health and well-being of local families.”

The grocer also supported the Junior Advisory Council at the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank where students serving on the council received a $500 scholarship.

In 2013, hunger relief efforts and donations to regional food banks accounted for approximately 40% of GIANT/MARTIN’S community giving with approximately 100 regional food banks and local pantries receiving $10 million in product, customer, vendor, and corporate donations.