The Food Lion Feeds Charitable Foundation has awarded more than $985,000 in “Nourishing Our Neighbors” grants to 318 feeding partners across Food Lion’s 10-state operating region.
According to the foundation, the grants will help participating nonprofits deliver food assistance – as well as education on meal planning, budgeting and cooking – that will help them expand capacity and reach more people.
“Every community we serve is unique, but they share a common need – access to nourishing food,” said Natasha Brinegar, president of the foundation and VP of category management, meat and seafood at Food Lion.
“These Nourishing our Neighbors grants strengthen local organizations who know our communities best and make a meaningful difference in our neighbors’ lives each day.”
The foundation, established in 2001, operates as a nonprofit managed by a volunteer board of Food Lion employees. Since its founding, it has distributed more than $25 million through grants to support community food-assistance programs, backpack meal initiatives, pantry support and other hunger-relief efforts.
In addition, the foundation holds a second round of grants each spring/summer. The next application deadline is March 13, and funds will be awarded in early June. Eligible nonprofits – affiliated with Feeding America or United Way – may apply once every 12 months.
[RELATED: Food Lion Invests $484M To Upgrade 153 Stores In Charlotte, NC Area]