Food Donated Publix Surpasses 1 Billion Pounds of Food Donated Through Good Together Program
Publix has announced a significant milestone in its ongoing fight against food insecurity, surpassing 1 billion pounds of food donated through its food donation initiative, which began in 2009. This achievement was shared at the company’s Hunger Summit, an event that brought together Publix leaders and representatives from Feeding America® partner food banks across the Southeast to discuss ways to improve food distribution and ensure it reaches those who need it most.
“I’m proud of our associates who have helped donate over 1 billion pounds of food to individuals and families in our communities experiencing food insecurity,” said Publix CEO Kevin Murphy. “Collaborating with Feeding America food bank partners at our Publix Hunger Summit reinforces our company’s commitment to providing nourishment for our neighbors in need.”
The Publix food donation program began as a pilot in a small group of stores in 2009 and expanded companywide by 2011. Through this initiative, Publix donates food that is no longer salable but remains safe for consumption. Donations come from various store departments, including deli, grocery, meat, and produce. These food items are provided to Feeding America partner food banks and other nonprofit organizations. In September 2023, Publix renamed the program the Good Together food donation program, expanding the list of eligible donated items by adding more than 4,000 products.
In 2024, Publix set a new record, donating over 115 million pounds of food within a single year. This substantial contribution helped push the total amount of food donated through the program beyond 1 billion pounds.
“Feeding America is grateful for our impactful partnership with Publix, including their support for people experiencing food insecurity and the opportunity for collaborative efforts like the Publix Hunger Summit,” said Feeding America CEO Claire Babineaux-Fontenot. “We are thrilled to celebrate Publix’s donation of over 1 billion pounds of food as we continue to work together toward an America where no one is hungry.”
To put 1 billion pounds of food into perspective, it would take more than 22,000 Publix tractor-trailers to transport that amount. If these trucks were lined up end to end, they would cover a distance of more than 300 miles, equivalent to the stretch between Jacksonville, Florida, and Atlanta, Georgia.
Publix Charities Grant
During the Hunger Summit, Publix Super Markets Charities (PSMC) announced a $6 million grant opportunity to support select food banks within Publix’s operating areas. This funding is designated for one-time projects such as infrastructure improvements, enabling food banks to enhance their capabilities and expand their reach.
“We are dedicated to making lives better in the communities where Publix operates,” said Publix Charities Executive Director John Doran. “This grant helps give hope to our neighbors in need by supporting our food bank partners.”
Since 2015, Publix Charities has contributed over $69 million toward hunger relief efforts, reinforcing its long-term commitment to addressing food insecurity and supporting those in need.
Good Together Hunger Campaign
Publix is currently running its biannual Good Together hunger campaign in stores, which allows customers and associates to contribute to local food banks through register donations. The campaign runs through March 2, providing an opportunity for shoppers to make a direct impact on food insecurity in their communities.
In addition to the register donations, Publix has pledged to donate $5 million worth of fresh produce as part of this initiative. These fresh fruits and vegetables will help food banks provide healthier options for those facing food insecurity.
Publix’s Commitment to Community and Quality
Publix, the largest employee-owned company in the United States with over 255,000 associates, currently operates 1,391 stores across Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Tennessee, South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, and Kentucky. For 27 consecutive years, the company has been recognized by Fortune as a great place to work, a testament to its dedication to both employees and customers.
Beyond its commitment to hunger relief, Publix continues to be an industry leader in providing superior quality and customer service. The company remains focused on enriching communities through charitable initiatives while maintaining its reputation as one of the top grocery retailers in the country.
For more information about Publix and its initiatives, visit the company’s newsroom.
