Publix donates $4M to help build Habitat homes in South

After a new donation pledge from Publix Super Markets, the international nonprofit Habitat for Humanity will be able to build 40 new houses in 2016 in the Southeast, where Publix serves all of its customers.

The $4 million donation, announced Monday, will go to more than 80 different Habitat for Humanity affiliates in Ala., Fla., Ga., N.C., S.C. and Tenn.

“Every family deserves an opportunity to have a roof over their heads and food on their table,” PSMC president Carol Jenkins Barnett said. “My father established our foundation in 1966 with a strong desire to see our communities thrive. Forty-nine years later, we are continuing his legacy. As we honor my father’s memory and celebrate what would have been his 108thbirthday today, we are delighted to continue our 26-year partnership with Habitat for Humanity by giving $4 million to Habitat affiliates across Publix’s footprint.”

In addition to the $4 million pledge, Publix will donate groceries for the homes sponsored by the donation, and Publix associates will invest in Habitat for Humanity for their 2016 Publix Serves community impact campaign.

“Our associates serve our customers with stellar customer service, and serve their communities generously by giving of their time and talents to support many nonprofit organizations,” Public media and community relations director Maria Brous said. “Our associates are always there to give of themselves when our communities are in need. Giving back is what we do. It is our culture of service.”

The $4 million donation is the largest amount given by PSMC in a year since it began supporting Habitat for Humanity in 1989.