Elk Grove Township partners with Meijer in hunger relief effort

Elk Grove Township is partnering with the Rolling Meadows Meijer store at 1301 Meijer Drive for the retailer's "Simply Give" program. The fall campaign began on Sunday, Aug. 23, and hunger relief efforts have been extended to Oct. 24.

Area residents can shop at Meijer and purchase a "Simply Give" donation card at the checkout counter to help stock the shelves of the Elk Grove Township Food Pantry. Usage at the food pantry from October 2019 through March 2020 has increased by 69%.

The previous average families served per month was 250, which has now sharply risen to an average of 422 families over the last four months.

The program is rolling out the double match days the weekend of Friday, Sept. 11, and Saturday, Sept. 12. When shoppers donate, Meijer will double the donation, giving the food pantry $20 for every $10 donated on these two days only. Meijer has partnered with Elk Grove Township to ensure all donations that are generated remain in their local community.

"Meijer has been helping our township empower people through building a community of support to end hunger since the spring of 2016," said Elk Grove Township Supervisor Mike Sweeney.

"The township utilizes funds raised through this program to purchase meat, seldom donated items, or other vital supplies that are running low or have completely run out."

Donations are converted into a Meijer food-only gift card and then donated directly to the food pantry, which allows flexibility to choose the grocery items that are best suited for the families that are served. Donations of any amount will be accepted and are greatly appreciated by the township.

Meijer's "Simply Give" program began in 2008 and is a signature fundraising effort for hunger relief efforts around the country. The program has generated more than $50 million, thanks to the store's generous customers, team members and food pantry partners who are committed to making a difference in their communities.

For information, visit meijercommunity.com/simply-give, or contact Izabela Szymanska at Iszymanska@elkgrovetownship.com or (224) 222-0945.

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