Hy-Vee, Meijer, and The Giant Company revealed Monday philanthropic initiatives centered on donating food during the holiday season.
Hy-Vee, in partnership with Hormel Foods and local first responders, said that it is giving away 5,000 Hormel Cure 81 Hams. The proteins will be distributed through 10 Feeding America member food banks to families across the retailer’s eight-state footprint.
“Food insecurity is a very real concern that affects many of our neighbors and customers,” said Jeremy Gosch, Hy-Vee’s CEO, in a statement. “With the support of our partner, Hormel Foods, we can give back and help make this holiday season a little brighter for those who may be struggling.”
This initiative is part of Hy-Vee’s Hams for the Holidays program that seeks to provide 25,000 meals to those in need.
The Giant Company is also hoping to combat food security in its local community by providing hams to the food insecure. The grocer shared it is donating 3,000 hams to 15 food banks and food pantries across its footprint and $35,000 directly to seven organizations combatting food insecurity.
“Sharing a meal together with family and loved ones is often the focal point of holiday celebrations, but too many families in our communities struggle to put food on the table,” said John Ruane, president of The Giant Company, in a statement. “The Giant Company is proud to again partner with our food bank and hunger relief partners to help meet the increased demand they are facing, both now and year-round, and help families in need enjoy a holiday meal together.”
Meijer’s food give-back event is focused on thanking its customer base. To surprise more than 10,000 pickup customers this holiday season, it is launching the “12 Days of Meijer Pickup” event that honors users by giving multiple customers coupons valued between $50 and $500 or a gift box with several holiday-themed items.
"Our customers have truly embraced our pickup program because of its ease and convenience," said Justin Sessink, director of digital shopping for Meijer, in a statement. "The holidays are a perfect time to show how much we appreciate them, and this event allows our stores to have fun while doing it."
Related: Safeway, MrBeast Partner on Donation; Instacart Joins Forces on Fresh Produce