In an effort to turn a dismal situation into a win-win for all parties involved, the Publix grocery store chain has unveiled plans to purchase produce from financially-strapped farmers and donate it to food banks.
The move comes as the coronavirus pandemic continues to drive farmers closer to bankruptcy and skyrocketing unemployment numbers have increased the demand at local food banks, some of which have fallen short in providing for their communities.
Publix officials estimate they’ll purchase 150,000 pounds of produce and 43,500 gallons of milk in the first week of the program, which is expected to continue for “several weeks.”
Just in Florida, where Publix is headquartered, crop losses have totaled more than $522 million through mid-April.
