Meijer's 'Simply Give' Program extended to aid area food pantry

Meijer in Rolling Meadows, 1301 Meijer Drive, has extended its "Simply Give" program, which was set to end Oct. 24.

The giving campaign enables store customers to purchase gift cards that help the Elk Grove Township Food Pantry stock its shelves with needed items. Since nearly 50% more families are utilizing the township food pantry this year compared to last, the 10-week extension until Jan. 2, 2021, will help sustain the food pantry through the holiday season.

In addition to the program running now through early January, Meijer is offering customers two opportunities to have their contributions "double matched" - the first on Tuesday, Dec. 1, and the second on Saturday, Dec. 12.

For every donation made to the program on these dates, Meijer will double it, giving the food pantry an additional $20 for every $10 donated.

"Through the first 10 months of 2020, compared to the same period of time in 2019, there has been a 47% increase in the number of families served each month by the food pantry," said Elk Grove Township Supervisor Mike Sweeney.

"This generous extension of Simply Give allows the township to help minimize stress within families who are experiencing financial challenges during the holidays."

Area residents can shop at Meijer and purchase a Simply Give donation card at the checkout counter or the customer service desk. Donations are converted into a Meijer food-only gift card, and then donated directly to the food pantry. This allows flexibility for the township to choose grocery and other items best suited for the families served.

The township often uses cards to provide meat or other seldom donated items. Donations of any amount will be accepted and are greatly appreciated.

Meijer's Simply Give program began in 2008 and is a signature fundraising campaign for hunger relief efforts in communities where stores are located around the country. The partnership between Meijer and Elk Grove Township began in the spring of 2016.

Simply Give has generated more than $50 million in the U.S. since it was started, thanks to generous customers, team members and food pantry partners committed to making a difference in their communities.

For information, visit meijercommunity.com/simply-give, or call Elk Grove Township Assistant to the Administrator Izabela Szymanska at (224) 222-0945 or email Iszymanska@elkgrovetownship.com.

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