Publix donates more than 1 million pounds of produce, 100K gallons of milk in 2 weeks

LAKELAND, Fla. — Publix is doing their part to help farmers while also making sure Florida residents in need don't go hungry.

In April, the Florida-based grocery store chain announced it would buy farmers' excess food and milk and donate it to food banks for several weeks.

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Since the coronavirus hit the U.S. earlier this year, farmers have had to discard produce and milk that isn’t being sold because of school, restaurant and hotel closures.

Publix said Wednesday they have now donated to Feeding America member food banks more than 1 million pounds of produce and 100,000 gallons of milk in the last two weeks.

“We’re proud of the success this initiative has had in supporting farmers and families affected by the pandemic,” said Publix CEO Todd Jones in a written statement. “As a food retailer, feeding families is our greatest opportunity to give back, and we are grateful to be able to do so while supporting produce and dairy farmers. During such challenging times, we are even more committed to supporting those in need and doing good, together.”

Publix said their donations go directly to Feeding America member food banks throughout the company's seven-state operating area.

“There are some things you can’t plan for, and this is one of them,” said 5 Brothers Produce Senior Sales Associate Thomas Torbert in a written statement. “You just hope that you can find the right people to work with, people who can come up with the right solutions to help you make it through. We found that right partner in Publix.”