Lakeland, Fla. — Publix Inc. has launched an initiative to help feed families that purchase 150,000 pounds of produce and 43,500 gallons of leftover milk from Florida farmers. The Lakeland, Fla.-based grocer will then donate the excess items to Feeding America in the coming weeks.
Feeding America projects that 17.1 million families in the United States will experience food insecurity during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Like so many others right now, Florida farmers are in a time of need. We are humbled Publix is purchasing additional fresh vegetables from us and other local farms to donate to food banks throughout the Southeast,” says Peter Pero IV, CEO of Pero Family Farms Food Co. “Thank you to Publix, the participating food banks and their volunteers for making this initiative possible for those less fortunate while supporting local farms.”
Since 2009, Publix has donated more than $2 billion in food to people in need and has pledged an additional $2 billion in food donations over the next 10 years. Publix Super Markets Charities recently made donations totaling $2 million to support Feeding America member food banks during the pandemic.
“As a food retailer, we have the unique opportunity to bridge the gap between the needs of families and farmers impacted by the coronavirus pandemic,” says Publix CEO Todd Jones. “In this time of uncertainty, we are grateful to be able to help Florida’s produce farmers, southeastern dairies and families in our communities.”
SOURCE: www.ShoppingCenterBusiness.com