Meijer launches holiday donation program

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. Supercenter chain Meijer has launched a holiday donation program to benefit 185 local food pantries in the communities where its stores are based. The announcement was made today by Hank Meijer, co-chairmen and ceo.

"With so many people facing difficult times in our communities, we felt compelled to go above and beyond our normal holiday giving," said Meijer. "The need for food donation has never been greater and we hope our customers will join us in helping to feed the hungry in our local communities this holiday season."

Beginning this week, Meijer customers can participate in the "Simply Give" program by purchasing a $10 Meijer Food Pantry Donation Card at special displays throughout the store, as well as inside Meijer gas stations and convenience stops. The $10 amount reflects a typical bag of groceries at Meijer. The donation cards purchased by Meijer customers will then be converted into Meijer Gift Cards and given to the local Food Pantry selected by each store.

In addition to the gift cards donated by Meijer customers, Meijer will donate $100,000 in gift cards to help the participating food pantries stock their shelves for the holiday season. Meijer's $100,000 gift will be divided among the participating food pantries.