With the holidays in full swing, and many people economically affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, this can be the most stressful time of the year…Some families may not even know if they’ll be able to enjoy a Christmas dinner together.
This year has been especially difficult in the state of Florida due to the importance of the tourism industry and coronavirus concerns shutting down theme parks and local tourist hotspots. Many people have lost their jobs and Publix is working to provide support to these families by donating 1.3 million pounds of food to six of Florida’s largest food banks!
Publix launched a similar program in April of this year, continuing to help families through this additional six week program to aid during the holiday season. Publix purchases produce and milk from farmers impacted by the pandemic and delivers it directly to food banks (helping out struggling farmers too)!
According to WFLA News, “the six participating Feeding America member food banks collectively serve 46 counties in Florida and include:
- Feeding Tampa Bay, serving the Tampa metro area
- Feeding Northeast Florida, serving the Jacksonville metro area
- Feeding South Florida, serving the Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach and Monroe areas
- Harry Chapin Food Bank, serving the Fort Myers metro area
- Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida, serving the Orlando metro area
- Treasure Coast Food Bank, serving the Fort Pierce-Port St. Lucie metro area”
There are more than 2.7 million people struggling to feed their families and food banks have reported a 300-400% increase in demand this holiday season.
According to Publix CEO Todd Jones, he felt that the company needed to lend a helping hand during this tough season:
“When we heard from food banks that they were facing a critical food shortage, we knew that, as a food retailer, we had another opportunity to help. With 90 years of relationships and expertise, we are able to mobilize quickly — sourcing, purchasing and transporting what these food banks need most — and bring hope and nourishment this holiday season.”
Additionally, Paco Velez, president and CEO, Feeding South Florida commented on the amazing work that Publix has done throughout this crazy year:
“As federally funded food deliveries decrease, food banks need help to serve our communities. For decades, Publix has consistently looked for creative ways to support those in need. Their leadership in 2020 has played a vital role in sustaining our clients throughout this most challenging and unusual year.”
According to WFLA News, “Publix expects to purchase and deliver more than 18 million pounds of produce and over 500,000 gallons of milk to Feeding America member food banks throughout the Southeast this year, including more than 7 million pounds of produce and more than 250,000 gallons of milk to the six Florida food banks receiving additional support this holiday season.”
If you are in need of help during this tough season (find your local food bank through the link) or want to learn more about Feeding America, click here. Help is always here for you! Happy holidays, Chip & Co. friends!
Source: WFLA News Channel 8.
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