Take A Bite Out of Hunger
FirstFruits Marketing created Take a Bite Out of Hunger™ with the goal of helping feed the underserved while brin
ging attention to the problem of food insecurity in the United States. This is the second year that FirstFruits Marketing has partnered to make fresh apple donations in a retailer’s name to local food banks, with the retailer contributing the cost of freight.
ging attention to the problem of food insecurity in the United States. This is the second year that FirstFruits Marketing has partnered to make fresh apple donations in a retailer’s name to local food banks, with the retailer contributing the cost of freight. “We are happy to bring this program back for a second year after seeing how we could be successful at coming together to provide the underserved with fresh produce,” remarked Keith Matthews, CEO of FirstFruits Marketing. “The more support we get from the retail community, the more apples we can donate.”
The problem of hunger isn’t just about being hungry. It’s about food insecurity, or not having regular access to safe, affordable and nutritious foods. In 2010, 15% of all U.S. households were food-insecure. Of those 33% were children, 96% reported that the food they bought just did not last and they did not have money to get more, and 94% reported that they could not afford to eat balanced meals.
In 2010, Grocery Outlet Bargain Market, an extreme value grocery retailer, participated in Take a Bite Out of Hunger™ in the Pacific Northwest. “Last year we were able to donate over 74,400 pounds of apples to those in need in our own communities where our stores are located,” said Don Murphy, director of produce and floral for Grocery Outlet. Murphy added “Our store owners/operators embraced the program and we plan on participating again this year with hopes to exceed last year’s donations in Oregon and Washington.” The Take a Bite Out of Hunger™ program will provide full retail support with campaign themed polybags and merchandisers, point of sale cards, and ad slicks. It will also be supported with a consumer media campaign, including a strong social media presence. Additionally there will be supported retail display contests.
If you would like more information about how you can get involved in this program and help support a local food bank, please email Andy Tudor, director of marketing at FirstFruits Marketing, at andyt@ffm-WA.com.