Meijer will begin offering special discounts on fruits and vegetables for its SNAP customers thaks to a waiver granted by the USDA. The discounts will range from $5 to $10, and 5 percent to 10 percent on SNAP purchases of qualifying produce.
"As a company committed to enriching lives in the communities we serve, feeding people has always been at the heart of what we do," Meijer president and CEO Rick Keyes said in a statement. "We are participating in this important federal initiative to help families get easier access to healthy foods, which is another way we can help reduce food insecurity."
The discounts apply at all Meijer supercenters, neighborhood markets, and Express locations. The first promotional period will run from October 2-31 and provide 10 percent off fresh fruits and vegetables. Additionally, Meijer will provide coupons to its SNAP customers to take similar discounts off future purchases.
"Beginning with our pioneering DoubleUp Bucks program, Michigan has always been a leader in helping people who need food assistance get healthier, Michigan-grown fruits and vegetables," said United States Senator Debbie Stabenow, chairwoman of the senate committee on agriculture, nutrition, and forestry, in a statement. "With nearly 500 locations across six states, Meijer's announcement today will mean better access to healthier foods for millions of American kids, seniors, and families."
Hunger relief is one of the company’s longest-standing commitments. In 2008, Meijer started its Simply Give program that stocks the shelves of food pantries across the Midwest. In total, the program has generated more than $73 million for its communities.
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