As part of Publix Super Markets Charities’ ongoing support of hunger relief efforts and in recognition of September being Hunger Action Month, Publix Charities announced today it will donate $5 million to Feeding America® member food banks, schools and other nonprofit organizations across the Southeast. The donation will support pantries and meal programs in the communities surrounding Publix stores and brings Publix Charities’ total contribution to hunger relief organizations to more than $22 million over the last five years. Throughout the day, Publix associates and leadership will visit 18 Feeding America member food banks and partner agencies in Publix’s seven-state operating area to volunteer and deliver contributions.
“Millions of people in the Southeast — many of them children and seniors — may not know where they will find their next meal. Together, we can help change that,” said Kelly Williams-Puccio, executive director of Publix Super Markets Charities. “We are proud to continue our commitment to feeding communities across the Southeast and offer dignity and nourishment to our neighbors in need.”
According to the USDA, 1 in 8 people across the U.S. struggles with hunger, including more than 9 million people in Publix’s operating area.
“Every day, food banks in the Feeding America network are on the ground helping children and families who need it most, but we know that we can’t end hunger alone. We are grateful to Publix and Publix Super Markets Charities for their long-standing commitment to fighting hunger in communities across the Southeast. Your donations will have a tremendous impact on the lives of people we serve,” said Claire Babineaux-Fontenot, CEO of Feeding America.
This year’s $5 million donation includes $25,000 to Feeding America as well as gifts ranging from $20,000 to $150,000 to member food banks, including $150,000 to Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida. Today 75 Publix associates also volunteered to sort 20,000 pounds of sweet potatoes.
