The Giant Co., in partnership with its customers, raised more than $1.3 million to combat hunger throughout public school districts in the communities it serves, as part of its Feeding School Kids initiative.
“The Giant Company is grounded in its purpose of connecting families for a better future and eliminating hunger–particularly childhood hunger–is essential to turning our purpose into action,” said Jessica Groves, community impact manager, in a statement. “Young minds cannot grow and learn on an empty stomach, and the Feeding School Kids initiative helps ensure a brighter future for our youth through food.”
From January 1 to February 28, customers at Giant, Martin’s, and Giant Heirloom Market stores were invited to round up their grocery purchases to the nearest dollar or convert their Choice points into a donation to support their local public school districts’ food programs. The company also donated $250,000 to the program.
School districts can use funds to support meal programs such as covering outstanding student meal debt, expanding food distribution programs, creating on-campus food pantries, and supplying extra weekend meals.
“Altoona Area School District is truly overwhelmed by the generosity of The GIANT Company and its customers,” said Susan Franks, director of business operations at the Altoona Area School District, in a statement. “Feeding School Kids funds will help feed our students, and in return, help them learn and grow, providing a lasting impact for years to come.”
Funds were given to public school districts in Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Virginia. The grocer’s matching funds were awarded based on need, as determined by the percentage of students in the district who receive free or reduced meals.
Related: Giant Announces Sustainability Grant Program; Walden Mutual Bank Seeks to Support Sustainable Food Systems