SpartanNash launching milk donation drive to support food banks

Grocery retailer and distributor SpartanNash is partnering with the United Dairy Industry of Michigan (UDIM) for a companywide milk drive fundraiser to support local families in need.

From Aug. 15-29, guests who visit any participating SpartanNash-owned retail store or fuel center in nine states can join the fight against hunger by donating the approximate cost of one, two or three gallons of milk or rounding up to the nearest dollar at the checkout lane or online through the Fast Lane platform. More than 145 stores are participating, primarily under the banners of Family Fare, D&W Fresh Market, VG’s Grocery, Martin’s Super Markets and Dan’s Supermarket, to support more than 100 local food banks and pantries. Those who cannot make it to a store can text MILK to 23065 to donate.

Ninety-five percent of food banks say they don’t have enough milk available for families, according to a survey by Feeding America.

"We know that hunger doesn’t take a day off — and the economic impact of COVID has caused increasing numbers of families to turn to food pantries and food banks for support,” said SpartanNash vice president of communications Adrienne Chance. “One hundred percent of funds raised through our milk drive will be used to purchase milk at cost for families throughout the year.”

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According to the Feeding America survey, one in six Americans experiences hunger — a number that increased to one in five during the pandemic. Food banks and food pantries provide hunger-relief services by distributing food and grocery items such as milk and other pantry staples. Access to milk can help to close the nutrition gap, because milk provides potassium, calcium and vitamin D.

"Milk is one of the top three requested items at food banks, yet the average family only receives one gallon per year," said UDIM director of Youth Wellness Programs Cortney Freeland. "This means families and children are missing out on milk’s high-quality protein and the essential nutrients it provides. Michigan’s dairy farmers are incredibly proud to partner with SpartanNash and its store guests on this amazing opportunity to provide fresher dairy to our communities in need and ensure everyone has access to nutritious foods."

Grand Rapids, Mich.-based SpartanNash is a leading distributor of grocery products to a diverse group of independent and chain retailers, its 148 corporate-owned retail stores and U.S. military commissaries and exchanges, as well as operating a fresh produce distribution network.