A significant milestone in the fight against hunger has been achieved through a remarkable initiative led by Food Lion Feeds and its customers. This year's Orange Bag campaign has successfully delivered the equivalent of over 14.8 million meals to support individuals struggling with food insecurity across the United States. The program, which partners with Feeding America, the nation's largest domestic hunger-relief organization, ensures that local food banks throughout Food Lion’s operating regions receive much-needed resources. Since its inception in 2019, this annual event has collectively supported 33 food bank locations within Food Lion’s expansive network.
The impact of community involvement cannot be overstated in addressing the growing issue of food insecurity. According to recent data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, more than one in four Americans participate annually in at least one food and nutrition assistance program, reflecting an increase from previous years. These statistics underscore the financial challenges many families face when trying to put food on the table. Despite careful budgeting, numerous households still require additional help to access essential resources. The charitable food sector continues to play a crucial role in supporting these families as they navigate barriers to obtaining nutritious food.
Through dedicated efforts like the Orange Bag campaign, Food Lion Feeds demonstrates its unwavering commitment to ending hunger. Customers were given multiple opportunities to contribute, including purchasing specially marked orange bags or making cash donations at checkout counters between February 26 and March 18. Digital keypads at registers also allowed shoppers to conveniently round up their purchases or donate specific amounts. Since its establishment in 2014, Food Lion Feeds has helped provide over 1 billion meals to those in need, setting an ambitious goal to reach 1.5 billion meals by 2025. Such initiatives highlight how collective action can transform communities and ensure everyone has access to nourishing food, fostering hope and resilience for the future.