As we look forward to continuing our Simply Give program this year, we wanted to look back at the successes and needs that continue to drive us in our efforts to end food insecurity in our communities.
In so many ways, 2020 highlighted the difficult realities that make Simply Give and programs like it so necessary, as our food pantry partners struggled to keep up with the increased calls for assistance in their communities. But 2020 was also a year of great success as our customers, team members and communities rallied with us to step up and serve our hungry neighbors like never before.
In partnership with our generous customers, we were able to donate $7.6 million last year to feed those in need, which equates to 76 million meals, according the Feeding America.
Our holiday campaign alone earned $2.6 million in donations and saw the highest customer participation in the Simply Give program's 12-year history.
These successes are made even more significant when we can see just how much they mean to the local pantries they benefit. Here are some words of gratitude directly from our food pantry partners:
“This is wonderful news. We are so thankful for our partnership and for your commitment to enriching the lives of people in our community through your Simply Give campaign. We truly appreciate all you do.”
-Lisa S., Shalom Center, pantry partner of our Kenosha, Wisc. store
“This is such wonderful news, thank you so much for continuing to partner with the City, it’s very much appreciated!! This year was pretty challenging with our Holiday Assistance program, as you can imagine. We had over 200 families register, and I was able to find some assistance for about 100 of those families. Needless to say, these gift cards will come in handy for the 2021 holiday season.”
-Sue G., Sterling Heights Food Pantry, pantry partner of our Sterling Heights, Mich. store
“Thank you very much. We appreciate all of the support from our local Meijer store in Rolling Meadows and Store Director Brian Lach’s Team as well as all of the work that goes on at your headquarters to coordinate, implement and manage this excellent program.”
-Paul P., Elk Grove Township Food Pantry, pantry partner of our Rolling Meadows, Ill. store
“We are just blown away by the results. You can imagine how much this is needed during winter and after so many canceled events! Thank you.”
-Melissa B., Muskegon Rescue Mission, pantry partner of our North Muskegon, Mich. store
“This is absolutely amazing!! Thank you so much for all the support that you give to our pantry and most importantly our community at large. You are a blessing and we appreciate all that you do.”
-Michelle H., St. Alphonsus Food Center, pantry partner of our Knapp’s Corner Grand Rapids, Mich. store
“Thank you so very much for helping to feed the families in our community.”
-Cynthia J., PFC Food Pantry at St. Mark’s, pantry partner of our Plainfield, Ind. store