Giant donates turkeys to food banks

CARLISLE >> Giant Food stores recently donated 9,500 holiday turkeys to food banks across the region — continuing an annual tradition of helping those in need.

This year, the company donated the highest number of turkeys to date, surpassing its 2017 donation by about 2,500 turkeys, according to the company.

“Throughout our 95-year history, Giant has been a passionate supporter of the fight against hunger, and every day we are inspired by the dedication and compassion our food bank partners display in this ongoing fight,” Nicholas Bertram, president, Giant Food Stores, said in a press release. “We are honored to partner with them and do our part to help ensure all families are able to gather around the table to enjoy a warm holiday meal.”

In addition to the one-day turkey donation delivery Nov. 1, more than 200 Giant and Martin’s Food Markets associates spent the morning volunteering at the food banks — organizing and restocking shelves in advance of the holiday season.

The 2018 turkey donation comes as the company continues its year-long 95th anniversary celebration, centered on giving back to its community partners.

“The company does it because it’s the right thing to do — to make sure everyone has a healthy holiday meal to share with loved ones,” said Ashley Flower, Giant Food Stores external communications and community relations manager, adding that in 2017, about 7,000 turkeys were donated.

A total of 20 food banks across Giant’s footprint received turkey donations, including five food banks in this region. They are:

Manna on Main Street, Lansdale; West Chester Food Cupboard, West Chester; Family and Community Service of Delaware County; Greater Berks Food Bank, Spring Twp.; and Philabundance, Philadelphia.

Giant customers have the opportunity to join the effort by donating their free turkey certificate — earned by shopping with their BonusCard — to a local regional food bank. Through Nov. 22, customers can donate their certificates at any one of the company’s 171 stores.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Giant Food stores have donated 9,500 turkeys to 20 food banks across the supermarket chain’s footprint. Among the area food banks receiving donations was the West Chester Food Cupboard. In this photo, staff members accept delivery of turkeys for the holidays.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Giant Food stores have donated 9,500 turkeys to 20 food banks across the supermarket chain’s footprint. Among the area food banks receiving donations was the Family and Community Service of Delaware County. This is some of the staff of the organization.