Meijer, Food Lion Combat Food Insecurity

Meijer and Food Lion have presented separate initiatives to address food insecurity within their respective footprints.

Meijer said it is donating $2 million to 30 food bank partners to help battle hunger in its local communities. The donations will create a larger impact helping the food banks to better meet the needs of those they serve, resulting in a positive ripple effect in communities across the Midwest, said the retailer.

"We recognize the vital role food banks play in addressing hunger and are proud to stand alongside our partners to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those facing food insecurity," said Rick Keyes, president and CEO of Meijer, in a statement. "We know there is an elevated need in many of our communities, and we want to do our part to help feed our hungry neighbors."

Food Lion said Thursday that it worked with customers through its sixth annual Food Lion Feeds Orange Bag campaign to provide meals to those dealing with food insecurity. The program ran from Feb. 28 – March 19 and benefited Feeding America and local partner food banks throughout the retailer’s 10-state operating area.

During the campaign, customers purchased marked bags of oranges or made cash donations during checkout.

“Every cash donation and orange bag purchase makes a lasting impact to help nourish our neighbors,” said Kevin Durkee, manager of Food Lion Feeds at Food Lion, in a statement. “Working in collaboration with our partner food banks, we are honored to support their efforts to address food insecurity. We are committed to doing our part because everyone deserves access to nutritious food.”

The collective effort provided more than 18.3 million meals to partner food banks, said Food Lion.