Hannaford Supermarkets has launched a register donation campaign at all 189 of its stores to support food banks across New England and New York.
Beginning May 12, Hannaford customers can donate $5, $10 or another amount when checking out. All donations will go to the food bank serving the store’s community. According to Feeding America, a $10 donation can help provide the equivalent of 100 meals.
In addition, each of the food banks will receive a $10,000 donation from Hannaford.
The grocer kicked off the campaign by donating $70,000 to seven food banks. In 2024, Hannaford donated 27.5 million pounds of food to help feed neighbors in need.
“At Hannaford, we’ve long believed it’s our responsibility to create more good in our communities,” said Mike Vail, president. “Having access to fresh, nutritious food is an essential need, and caring for our neighbors experiencing food insecurity is one of the most meaningful ways we can lift one another up.
“We look forward to partnering with our loyal customers to make a real impact during this time of increased need in our communities.”
The campaign arrives as food banks across the nation experience rising hunger rates. A 2024 survey from Feeding America shows that 80 percent of responding food banks reported an increased demand for food assistance, and 65 percent reported an increase in the number of people served.
Data released in 2024 shows that the hunger rate in Maine, Hannaford’s home state, rose sharply from 10.6 to 13.1 percent, a 24 percent increase. Last year, Good Shepherd Food Bank, one of the beneficiaries of the campaign, distributed nearly 40 million meals.
“Hunger in Maine is rising, and so is the need for collective action,” said Heather Paquette, president of the food bank. “We’re grateful to Hannaford and its customers for responding to this critical moment with generosity. Every donation made at the register will help achieve food security for everyone in Maine.”
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