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Support Your Community This Holiday Season

As the holiday season approaches, communities across the nation are feeling the weight of food insecurity, particularly after the recent government shutdown and disruptions to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). In this crucial time, Feeding America, alongside its numerous partners, is stepping up to ensure that families have the opportunity to gather around a table filled with food during the holidays.

Feeding America boasts a vast network that includes over 250 food banks and more than 60,000 food pantries, dedicated to spreading joy and nourishment to those in need. Casey Marsh, chief development officer of Feeding America, emphasized the importance of community and family gatherings during this time, stating, "Everyone deserves the chance to gather with family, share a meal and celebrate cherished traditions."

Campaigns to Support

To facilitate this mission, several national partners are launching initiatives aimed at raising funds and encouraging donations to support Feeding America’s efforts:

• - Free People: For its third consecutive year, Free People is inviting customers to participate in their round-up program, available from November 1st to December 31st, allowing patrons to round up their purchases to assist Feeding America.

• - The Fresh Market: Similar to Free People, The Fresh Market is again promoting their Holiday Round Up, encouraging shoppers to consider rounding up at checkout for donations that provide meals to families facing hunger.

• - Grocery Outlet: With the goal of providing 3 million meals, Grocery Outlet's initiative, running from November 12 to December 31, invites customers to donate while also matching in-store donations made up to $150,000.

• - Ollie's: Ollie’s continues the spirit of giving by launching a holiday register campaign from December 7 to 24, allowing customers to round up their purchases or donate at checkout for local food banks.

• - Southeastern Grocers: Until December 19, customers visiting Harveys Supermarket and Winn-Dixie can contribute by donating at the register, with funds directly supporting Feeding America and partner food banks across multiple states.

• - TikTok Shop: TikTok is enabling its users to round up purchases in-app until December 31, with all contributions directed to Feeding America.

• - United Built Homes: For every home built within its service area, United Built Homes will donate $350 to Feeding America partner food banks, promoting longer-term support for food security.

• - Uniqlo: This December, Uniqlo is participating in a global initiative, donating 1 million HEATTECH products, while also encouraging in-store donations to benefit Feeding America.

How You Can Get Involved

In this season of giving, it's vital to recognize that a small action can lead to substantial impact. A mere $1 contribution can secure at least ten meals through Feeding America’s network.

To help support your local community during this holiday season, consider visiting FeedingAmerica.org/Holiday for various options to donate and learn more about how to contribute effectively. Connecting with your local food bank can also provide further insights into their specific needs and how you can assist.

This holiday, let’s come together and ensure that every family has the opportunity to share a healthy meal and build lasting memories around the table, fostering connection and hope during these challenging times.