Food City helps feed families and pets this holiday season

The holidays are a time for giving, and Food City is making it easy for shoppers to help neighbors and their four-legged companions who may be struggling to put food on the table.

Food City’s ninth annual Friends & Pets in Need Holiday Food Drive began November 4 and continues through December 31, benefiting local hunger relief organizations and animal shelters throughout the region.

Customers can purchase specially marked bags containing nonperishable food items or pet food products for $15 plus tax at participating Food City locations. The bags can then be placed in collection bins at the front of the store.

All products collected will benefit local hunger relief organizations and animal shelters.

“Hunger is a serious problem throughout our region, especially during the holidays and colder winter months,” said Steven C. Smith, Food City’s president and CEO. “Food City is proud to host a number of hunger relief programs throughout the year, including our Friends & Pets in Need Holiday Food Drive.”

The campaign has become an important part of Food City’s community outreach. Last year’s drive raised more than $424,000 to support hunger relief organizations and animal shelters.

Misty Deskins, Food City’s senior director of marketing, said the program provides another opportunity to help those facing food insecurity, including families caring for pets.

Smith hopes this year’s campaign will set a new record.

For shoppers, participating is simple: Pick up a $15 food or pet food bag during a regular grocery trip and leave it in the designated collection bin. That small act of generosity can help make the holidays brighter for neighbors and animals in need.

The campaign runs through December 31 at area Food City stores.

Betsi James is the special events manager for the Food City Knoxville division.

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