The Save Mart Companies’ portfolio of grocers, in addition to Food Lion and Schnucks Markets shared Wednesday that they are running campaigns this holiday season to combat hunger.
Shoppers at Save Mart, Lucky, and FoodMaxx stores throughout California and Western Nevada can donate to local community food banks and pantries through the return of its Friends Feeding Friends program. The event runs through the end of the year.
"So many in the neighborhoods we serve continue to face food insecurity and our Friends Feeding Friends food drive provides our stores and our valued shoppers the opportunity to lend a supportive hand to their neighbors in need this season," said Donovan Ford, SVP and chief operations officer at The Save Mart Companies, in a statement.
Customers can choose to purchase a $15 or $25 bag of groceries at checkout to be donated to the food bank.
This year, Food Lion has launched its Holidays Without Hunger campaign wherein customers can purchase designated and prepackaged food for Feeding America food banks or make a $6 donation at checkout. The event runs from December 8-12.
“Every family deserves a nourishing meal with the ones they love, especially during the holiday season,” said Kevin Durkee, manager at Food Lion Feeds, Food Lion’s philanthropic arm, in a statement. “During these increased challenging times, we understand the impossible choices families face. However, through this campaign, we partner with our generous customers to ensure that every family can enjoy a meal together with the ones they love this holiday season.”
Schnucks said that it is continuing its decades-long partnership with The Salvation Army this season. Through the end of the year, customers can donate to the charity organization by rounding their purchases to the nearest dollar. Additionally, shoppers can choose a $1, $3, or $5 donation options at checkout.
“We are honored once again to partner with The Salvation Army at both our check stands and at our store entrances to help Nourish People's Lives in the communities that we serve,” said Schnucks chairman and CEO Todd Schnuck, in a statement. “Our customers' generous donations will make the holidays bright this year and the future even brighter as The Salvation Army works to provide food to the hungry, temporary housing to the unhoused, and toys to needy children.”
Last year, Schnucks donated more than $250,000 as part of the campaign.
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