Publix: where shopping — and giving back — is a pleasure.
On Thursday, Aug. 31, Publix Super Markets Charities announced that the company would be donating $5 million to the Feeding America network. The donation, which is three times larger than the amount the company has given in any previous year, will be divided between 28 member food banks and 38 local partner agencies across Publix's operating areas.
In the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World, the United Food Bank of Plant City will receive a $20,000 donation. In nearby Tampa, Feeding Tampa Bay received a $175,000 donation.
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, more than 48 million Americans live in food insecure households, including 15.3 million children. People who struggle with food insecurity are unable to consistently access enough nutritious food necessary for a healthy life.
“The statistics are alarming especially as it pertains to our children,” Carol Jenkins Barnett, president of Publix Super Markets Charities, said. “As we prepare for a new school year, many families are left grappling with the reality that they are food insecure. We continue to hear about the need for fresh fruits, vegetables and dairy from Feeding America. Our $5 million donation will help Feeding America member food banks and their local partner agencies with the procurement, collection, transportation and distribution of even more wholesome, perishable foods to children and families. Our foundation is dedicated to giving the gift of nourishment and hope to our communities.”
As part of the Foundation’s $5 million gift, Feeding America will also receive a $100,000 donation to help provide an additional 1.1 million meals to individuals and families in need.
“Hunger is an issue that affects every community in our country. We are thankful to Publix Charities for its generous contribution to the Feeding America network, and for its commitment to addressing hunger,” Matt Knott, president of Feeding America, said. “From refrigerated trucks that have the ability to move millions of meals within communities to feeding programs that reach children and the elderly, this donation will help to ensure that our member food banks are able to meet the needs of people who struggle with hunger.”