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Publix Is Buying Excess Milk And Produce From Farmers And Donating It To Food Banks

April 24, 2020

Publix supermarket has launched a new initiative to help struggling farmers and get the milk and produce to Americans who need it most.

Farmers around the country have been forced to dump milk and waste fresh produce as schools and restaurants remain closed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Publix announced in a press release that it will purchase fresh produce and milk from farmers impacted by the coronavirus crisis and donate the goods directly to Feeding America food banks.

"The initiative will support Florida produce farmers, southeastern dairy farmers and the growing number of families looking to Feeding America for fresh fruits, vegetables and milk during the coronavirus pandemic. Kicking off today, the initiative is expected to run for several weeks," the press release stated.

During the first week of the initiative, 150,000 pounds of produce and more than 43,000 gallons of milk is expected to be donated, the company said.

"As a food retailer, we have the unique opportunity to bridge the gap between the needs of families and farmers impacted by the coronavirus pandemic," said Todd Jones, Publix CEO. "In addition to providing much needed produce and milk to food banks, this initiative provides financial support to farmers during this challenging time."

In addition to the new initiative, Publix has made donations totaling $2 million to help Feeding America's member food banks during the pandemic.