In celebration of its 10th anniversary, the Meijer LPGA Classic for Simply Give is increasing its 2023 donation goal of $1.25 million to $2 million.
The retailer kicked off the effort by making a $500,000 donation May 7 at the Meijer LPGA Classic Media Day event at Blythefield Country Club in Belmont, Michigan.
“As we commemorate the 10th anniversary of the Meijer LPGA Classic, we reflect on a decade of dedication to the tournament’s mission of feeding our hungry neighbors across the Midwest,” said Rick Keyes, president and CEO of Meijer.
“This event has always been more than a golf tournament. It’s a partnership with our community, and we couldn’t be more grateful to our team members, customers, food pantry partners and sponsors. With their continued support, we believe we can reach our special, elevated donation goal to make an even greater impact this year.”
An official LPGA Tour event, the tournament will host a field of 144 of the best female golfers for 72 holes of stroke play June 13-16. Proceeds from the tournament – and each of the week’s festivities – will benefit the Meijer Simply Give hunger relief program.
Throughout the tournament, attendees can contribute at donation stations and through their on-course purchases.
“From the very beginning, this tournament has united players, spectators, volunteers, and sponsors all in support of a shared cause,” said Cathy Cooper, executive director of the tournament.
“The Meijer Simply Give program creates a promising outlook for our communities in need, and we are proud to host an event where families can not only create memories but also help stock the shelves of our local food pantries.”
“It’s really exciting to see West Michigan come together for the Meijer LPGA tournament because it means our communities are coming together and thinking about our neighbors in need,” said Wendy Preiss, executive director of Flat River Outreach Ministries, a food pantry based in Lowell, Michigan.
“Because of the Meijer Simply Give program, not only can we provide good, quality food, but people can also come to our pantry twice a month, which makes a huge difference.”
In addition to the tournament’s primary contribution, the tournament champion will also take part in Simply Give’s mission, selecting a hunger relief organization of their choosing to receive $25,000.
Past Champions Leona Maguire (2023), Jennifer Kupcho (2022) and Nelly Korda (2021) have all selected West Michigan-based Kids’ Food Basket as their organization for the surprise donation.
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