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SpartanNash's Helping Hands Day: A Community Commitment to Disaster Relief

On April 17, 2025, SpartanNash, a food solutions company committed to disaster relief, held its annual Helping Hands Day, gathering 850 volunteers to pack an astonishing 500,000 meals along with 5,000 hygiene kits. This initiative, valued at an estimated $1.7 million, aims to support families affected by crises across the United States.

SpartanNash’s CEO, Tony Sarsam, emphasized, “As a People First company, it's not just about food – it's about giving people hope when they need it most.” This statement encapsulates the essence of SpartanNash’s mission to provide essential goods while fostering a sense of community during challenging times. Each packed box is designed to meet the immediate needs of vulnerable families, offering enough food to sustain a family of four for an entire week.

The event partnered with nonprofit organization Convoy of Hope, which will distribute the meals and hygiene kits to disaster-stricken areas, ensuring rapid response to the traumatic effects of natural disasters. In addition to the food packs, SpartanNash contributed a $100,000 check to further support the important work of Convoy of Hope.

A Collective Effort

This massive undertaking showcased not only SpartanNash employees, but also involved dedicated students from Calvin University, and various supplier partners including brands such as W.K. Kellogg Foundation, Hormel, and Del Monte Foods. Together, they worked to fill 15 18-wheelers with supplies. Their collective efforts highlighted a unified community spirit aimed at combating food insecurity in times of disaster.

Noteworthy donations included items like canned fruits and vegetables, pasta, dairy, and personal hygiene products from several suppliers. This collaboration reflects an industry-wide commitment to corporate social responsibility, as participants came together to fight hunger and provide comfort to those most affected.

The Impact of SpartanNash's Initiative

In 2024 alone, Convoy of Hope responded to 53 disasters across the United States, serving over 700,000 individuals and distributing more than 14 million pounds of food to impacted communities. SpartanNash’s contributions played a crucial role in these efforts, allowing for quicker initiatives to be launched in areas struck by calamities such as Hurricanes Beryl and Helene. “SpartanNash's unwavering commitment and partnership in disaster relief has been so valuable for us,” stated Ethan Forhetz, Convoy of Hope's VP of Public Engagement. “Their support ensures that when disaster strikes, we can respond immediately, bringing hope, comfort, and essential supplies to families in crisis.”

Looking Ahead

As SpartanNash continues to focus on community support, there is an ongoing commitment to disaster relief that extends beyond just food distributions. Their annual Helping Hands Day is just one part of a broader strategy aimed at engaging employees, suppliers, and the community in meaningful ways. By forging strong partnerships, SpartanNash not only delivers food but builds resilience within the communities they serve.

For those wishing to contribute to the mission of providing aid, additional information is available through Convoy of Hope’s website. Together, the collective efforts of businesses, organizations, and volunteers stand as a testament to the incredible impact that can be achieved when communities rally together to lend a hand.

About SpartanNash

As a leading food solutions provider, SpartanNash serves a diverse customer base including independent and chain grocers, national retail brands, and military commissaries. With nearly 20,000 associates, their operations strive to deliver quality products and foster a culture that prioritizes the well-being of communities across the nation. Learn more about SpartanNash's various initiatives and corporate commitments by visiting their website.