Publix, its associates and Publix Super Markets Charities are working together during Hunger Action Month to address food insecurity in the company’s operating area.
PSMC is donating $15 million to more than 400 local food banks and other nonprofit organizations, including 40 Feeding America partner food banks, according to a news release.
These funds will help support initiatives like weekend backpack programs, food pantries and meal delivery services. A portion of the donation will also help Feeding America partner food banks in Publix’s eight-state operating area fund one-time efforts, including vehicle purchases and other capital improvements. This brings PSMC’s total investment to help end hunger to over $78 million since 2015, according to the company.
Publix associates are also supporting their communities during Publix Serves Week, Sept. 14-21. Throughout the week, over 8,000 associates are volunteering at almost 150 organizations as part of the company’s continuing effort to feed its neighbors in need, according to the company.
“For 95 years, we’ve made it our mission to be responsible citizens in the communities where we operate and are committed to helping them thrive,” says Kevin Murphy, CEO of Publix. “With the generous support of Publix Charities, we can make the most impactful difference by helping to get food into the hands of people who need it the most. We’re proud to do good, together.”
Publix says it works year-round to help its neighbors in need through food donations and register campaigns.
Through the Good Together food donation program, the company says it donates food that is no longer saleable but safe for consumption to Feeding America partner food banks and their partner agencies. Last year, Publix expanded the program to include more than 4,000 additional products for donation and has now donated over 1 billion pounds of food since the program’s inception in 2009. A separate produce donation program, which began in 2020, has contributed over 150 million pounds of fresh produce to food banks, the company says.
Twice a year, the Good Together hunger campaign invites customers and associates to join Publix to help provide the fresh produce and nonperishable food items needed most by local food banks. The next campaign will run in stores Nov. 12-23.
