March21 , 2020

Hy-Vee Inc. is trying to raise $1 million to help local food banks restock their shelves during the COVID-19 outbreak.

Starting March 23, when customers check out, they will be asked if they would like to donate $1 or more to assist local food banks. For every dollar raised, Hy-Vee will match it dollar for dollar, up to $500,000.

Customers also can make a donation in a pre-set increment during their Hy-Vee Aisles Online purchase. All funds will be collected at the store level on a weekly basis and provided to local food banks in the eight-state region served by Hy-Vee to help replenish their stock every week.

“In today’s uncertain times, we want to keep our local food banks stocked with the essentials that individuals and families need,” said Randy Edeker, Hy-Vee’s chairman, CEO and president. “By partnering with our customers, our goal is to raise $1 million for our food bank partners, so they can continue their operations throughout this crisis.”

The company’s match will come from Hy-Vee’s One Step program, which is funded by proceeds from the sale of select Hy-Vee products to assist those in need.

Donations at the checkout will be accepted March 23 through April 30.

Each Hy-Vee location has selected a local food bank that will receive the monetary donations; many stores already have relationships with local agencies that are committed to meeting the needs of residents facing food insecurity in their areas.

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