BI-LO sponsors local food drive

To help local food banks meet unprecedented demand from families struggling with soaring gas costs, utilities and other core expenses, BI-LO Charities is launching its firstever summer food drive called the Hunger Relief Program in Millen and other BI-LO markets.

From July 16 through Aug. 5, BI-LO customers in Millen can help their fellow citizens in need by purchasing a bag of groceries containing essential food items for $5 at the checkout counter. The groceries will be donated to the Jenkins County Family Enrichment Center (JCFEC), which will then dispense them to local individuals and families who are the most in need.

In the small, rural community of Millen, where plant closings have become common, there are an increasing number of people who need the assistance of the JCFEC.

"Since January we have assisted nearly 300 people with food needs. It is necessary that we continue receiving donations so that we can provide food for the hundreds of people who need our help," said Julie Chance, director of the JCFEC.

The BI-LO Charities Hunger Relief grocery bag contains many items that are most often requested by food bank customers - cans of green beans, tuna, chicken noodle soup, beef ravioli and white corn, as well as macaroni and cheese and evaporated milk.

"Food donations are typically slower this time of year, but we've been hearing from a lot of food banks that their donations are really down right now at the same time that community needs are increasing," said Carol Browning, executive director of BI-LO Charities, Inc. "We look forward to partnering with our customers to help those who are the most in need in our communities."

The grocery store chain will promote the BI-LO Charities Hunger Relief program with in-store signage and newspaper ads and circulars.

BI-LO Charities, Inc. was formed in 1998 to manage BILO's extensive charitable giving initiatives, including the annual BI-LO Charity Classic golf tournament. Headquartered in Mauldin, S.C., BI-LO operates 220 supermarkets in the Carolinas, Georgia and Tennessee and employs approximately 16,200 people.