SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Big Y's annual Sack Hunger campaign provides funds for the four food banks within their 2 state marketing area. 

 

In turn, these food banks support local soup kitchens, food pantries, senior food programs, day care centers and many others of the 2,100 member agencies. 

 

Their goal is to maximize access to nutritious food and other resources that support food security for those at risk of hunger.

 

For $5, customers supported Sack Hunger a Big Y's 71 supermarkets or Table & Vine Fine Wines and Liquors. Every $5 donation brings 10 meals to those in need of support. Last year Big Y and their customers donated 2.1 million meals to those in need. Once again to further support the increased needs within their community during this pandemic, Big Y also matched all donations.

 

"We appreciate the generosity of our customers and employees in helping us to support our friends and neighbors in need," Big Y president and CEO, Charles L. D'Amour said. "And, we are grateful to our partnerships with our four area food banks for their tireless efforts in serving those most vulnerable in our communities. Being able to provide another 1.2 million meals through our Sack Hunger program helps us to fulfill our mission to feed families."

 

This past year has seen dramatic increases in food insecurity throughout the region. Big Y's Sack Hunger donation is part of their ongoing support throughout the year including almost daily donations of meat, fresh produce and bakery along with grocery, frozen food and dairy items.

 

The four regional food banks are the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts, the Worcester County Food Bank, the Greater Boston Food Bank in Massachusetts, and the Connecticut Foodshare.