Grocery chain Hy-Vee announces fundraiser to aid area food banks, sets $1 million goal

Iowa-based Hy-Vee Inc. wants to raise $1 million to help local food banks restock their shelves during the coronavirus pandemic.

Hy-Vee services an eight-state region including the Kansas City metro. As customers check out they will be asked if they would like to donate $1 or more to assist local food banks. For every dollar raised, Hy-Vee will match it, up to $500,000.

Customers also can make a donation when ordering online.

All funds will be collected at the store levels on a weekly basis and provided to local food banks.

In a statement, Hy-Vee chairman, CEO and president Randy Edeker said, “In today’s uncertain times, we want to keep our local food banks stocked with the essentials that individuals and families need.”

The company’s match will come from its Hy-Vee’s One Step program, which is funded by proceeds from the sales of select Hy-Vee products.

Donations will be accepted starting Monday through April 30.