Publix Achieves Remarkable Milestone, Donates 100 Million Pounds of Produce to Help Combat Food Insecurity
In a major step to combat food insecurity, Publix, a leading grocery retailer, has donated an astounding 100 million pounds of produce to the Feeding America partner food banks. This significant milestone signifies the company’s ongoing commitment to support local communities by helping feed those in need.
The initiative was first introduced in 2020, during the surge of the COVID-19 pandemic, to support struggling farmers. By purchasing their produce, Publix managed not only to provide the much-needed lifeline for the farmers but to also facilitate getting additional fresh fruits and vegetables to food bank partners. Since its inception in 2020, the initiative has successfully facilitated the donation of 4,237,940 pounds of food to the Lowcountry Food Bank.
Feeding the Needy While Supporting Local Farmers
Commenting on the initiative, Publix CEO, Kevin Murphy, expressed pride in the achievement. “As a grocery retailer, we can make our largest impact by helping feed our neighbors in need. Donating 100 million pounds of produce is an example of the difference Publix associates make year-round,” he explained. “I am proud of this innovative program and how we continue to find new ways to support the communities we serve, but our work is not done. We look forward to continuing to provide our food bank partners with produce throughout the year.”
Feeding America CEO Claire Babineaux-Fontenot also expressed her gratitude for Publix’s support. “Feeding America is deeply grateful for our partnership with Publix and for the generosity they continue to demonstrate,” she said. “Their contribution of 100 million pounds of fresh produce makes a meaningful difference to people facing food insecurity. We look forward to continuing to work together in the movement to end hunger.”
Publix’s Broader Commitment to Alleviating Hunger
The donation represents just a fragment of the company’s extensive commitment to making a difference in its operating area. In 2021, Publix launched its Good Together hunger alleviation campaign with a mission to bring together customers and associates to provide food for people facing food insecurity.
In addition to the campaign, through its Good Together food donation program, Publix also donates food from its stores that is no longer salable but still safe for consumption. Each fall, as part of the Publix Serves Week, thousands of company associates volunteer with organizations that assist community members facing hunger.
On account of its contributions to partner food banks, Feeding America recognizes Publix as a Feeding America Visionary Partner. The company, which is the largest employee-owned company in the U.S. with over 255,000 associates, currently operates 1,376 stores in several states, including Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Tennessee, South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, and Kentucky. For 27 consecutive years, the company has been recognized by Fortune as a great place to work, a testament to its commitment to quality and customer service.
