In the latest edition of MyMagazine from Kroger, I read an article about one way that Kroger is giving back to the community. They’re part of a non-profit community kitchen called Second Helpings. Second Helpings feeds 2,900 people daily, over 600,000 meals each year. Kroger partners with Second Helpings by shipping to them food that might otherwise go to waste. This “rescued” food becomes part of a culinary training program for people serviced by Second Helpings. Students are learning other life skills while honing their cooking skills. After graduating from the program, 85% of the students find employment!
I love that MY grocery store is involved with helping others in such a profound way. It makes me feel good about shopping there, knowing that a portion of what I’m spending is going back out to help someone else. Thanks, Kroger!
UPDATE: Be sure to click the Comments link at the top of the post (click the title if you’re reading via email or RSS reader) and read the comment left by Second Helping. It sounds like the help offered by Kroger really is a great service!
Jennifer,
Thanks for the mention! It’s true, Kroger is a very, very big supporter of our mission to eliminate food waste, fight hunger, and empower people. Their newsletter wasn’t just tooting their own horn. In fact, they humbly understate the impact they’ve had on our organization in the last few years. It has been nothing short of tremendous.
In the last year alone, they’ve donated over 100,000 pounds of meat so we can have a protein component to the over 2900 meals we send out every day to kids, adults, and seniors in our community. On top of that, they are also financial supporters, volunteer in our facility, and serve on our Board of Directors. They are wonderful partners and allies.
It’s funny to think about being proud of a grocery store, but Kroger’s Perishable Food Donation program is having a profound effect on the communities they serve, and that’s something to be proud of.
Keep up the good work. If you ever make it to Indy, come by for a wonderful lunch prepared by our Culinary Job Training classes. We promise to impress!
Wow, Ben! I think Kroger underestimated their contribution to what you’re doing. Amazing!
HOW DO YOU GET THE MY KROGER MAGAZINE?
THANKS!
Wendy – I think that they started sending it when I registered my Kroger Plus card online. It’s filled with great coupons!