Biz Briefs: Food Lion donates $3.1 million for critical needs
Published 12:00 am Sunday, April 5, 2020
SALISBURY — Food Lion is making a $3.1 million donation, with the majority being earmarked to feed those who are in need right now and to help those who are significantly impacted by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
“At Food Lion, our customers and associates who are part of the towns and cities we serve, are at the heart of everything we do and now, more than ever, we want to make sure we care for and nourish them,” said Meg Ham, Food Lion president.
The $3.1 million will be designated to support the following:
• $500,000 donation to fund medical research at UNC Health: Scientists at UNC Health are working to develop promising treatments, protective vaccines and public health practices for COVID-19.
• An additional $1 million donation, which is equivalent to 10 million meals, for local communities through Food Lion’s hunger relief platform, Food Lion Feeds. Last week, the company announced a $600,000 donation, including $500,000 or the equivalent of 5 million meals to support local Feeding America affiliated food bank partners in Food Lion’s 10-state footprint and $100,000 to Feeding America. The additional funds will provide relief for those who may need more support, such as children who need food because of school closures, seniors who are on limited incomes and those who are laid off from their jobs.
• Food Lion will also infuse $1 million into the Lion’s Pride Foundation, its associate emergency care fund to support associates whose families may be impacted by this crisis.
“We will continue to do everything we can to get all our neighbors through this,” added Ham. “We know our communities are counting on us during this pandemic crisis and we are here to support and provide care during this time.”
Thomasville efforts help older adults
THOMASVILLE — As the COVID-19 pandemic slams the nation, America’s grocery store workers are being called “heroes” as citizens everywhere flock to stores for food, cleaning supplies and hygiene products. The high demand for items is putting store employees working long hours to keep the shelves stocked, stores cleaned and customers satisfied. Those most vulnerable to COVID-19 — those over the age of 65 — are facing many challenges as they struggle to stay safe and get the supplies they need.
Many stores have set aside special hours and accommodations for seniors. Piedmont Crossing, a retirement community in Thomasville, NC, that serves over 300 older adults, has begun shopping for residents at their community.
“With COVID-19 restrictions in place, we are encouraging our residents to let us do the shopping for them. It’s important that older adults stay out of stores as much as possible,” said Blair White, marketing director at Piedmont Crossing. “Several of my colleagues and I are going to stores most mornings to shop for residents at Piedmont Crossing. Our local Food Lion has been so kind and supportive during these challenging times.”
A grocery store chain based out of Salisbury, NC, Food Lion is often supportive of local initiatives.
“Food Lion (store #1569) has staff readily available to assist us with our purchases for residents. They often have a register or two dedicated to get us in and out efficiently. They don’t stop there,” White said. “They help us load the groceries, too. Despite the stress they are experiencing, it amazes me how thoughtful they are. Store manager Chris McDonald even donated fresh flowers to our residents this week.”
White added, “As healthcare workers, we know what it’s like being on the frontlines serving others during these uncertain times. But we want grocery store employees, truck drivers and all those fellow essential workers keeping our communities running to know how much we appreciate them.”
Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina receives $47,000 from Duke Energy Foundation for hunger relief
CHARLOTTE — Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina has received $47,000 from the Duke Energy Foundation to address food relief in 14 counties in North Carolina — including Mecklenburg and the surrounding region — during the COVID-19 pandemic, caused by the coronavirus.
The grant will fund hunger relief for K-12 students and their families by providing food boxes and other food distribution to families in need and impacted by COVID-19.
The Duke Energy Foundation recently pledged $250,000 to Feeding the Carolinas, the network of food banks, including Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina, that serve and address hunger in all 100 counties across North Carolina.
“We recognize the critical needs in our communities right now – and community groups like Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina are on the frontlines responding to the COVID-19 crisis, helping those who need it most, said Stephen De May, Duke Energy North Carolina president, in a press release. “We are grateful for the work they are doing to feed communities in need.”
SECU to assist members facing income loss due to COVID-19
RALEIGH — State Employees’ Credit Union (SECU) announced on Tuesday that it’s ready to help members financially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Because of unexpected, large scale business closures, loss of jobs and reductions in hours, many members are struggling financially and need assistance to stay afloat during this unprecedented time.
About Natalie Anderson
Natalie Anderson covers the city of Salisbury, politics and more for the Salisbury Post. She joined the staff in January 2020 after graduating from Louisiana State University, where she was editor of The Reveille newspaper. Email her at natalie.anderson@salisburypost.com or call her at 704-797-4246.
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