BJ's Wholesale Club surpasses 50 million pounds of food donated

WESTBOROUGH, Mass. -- BJ's Wholesale Club has donated more than 50 million pounds of food through its BJ's Feeding Communities Program.

BJ's has contributed items to 45 food banks including fresh produce, frozen meats and fish, baked goods and dairy items. In partnership with Feeding America, the nation's largest domestic hunger-relief organization, BJ's clubs have donated unsold fresh foods to network member food banks since 2011.

"BJ's is committed to making a difference in our communities, and we're very proud of our Feeding Communities program," said Kirk Saville, senior vice president of corporate communications, BJ's Wholesale Club. "We've delivered more than 40 million meals to people in need in 15 states, helping families get the fresh, healthy food they need."

To celebrate the 50 million pound milestone, BJ's is donating $50,000 to local food banks. Beginning on Oct. 26, fans can visit the BJ's Facebook page to participate in the BJ's Feeding Communities Trivia Game. Ten participants will be randomly selected and announced on Oct. 28 and donations in the amount of $5,000 will be made in their name to their local Feeding America member food bank. These funds will be used to support the food bank's holiday meal programs.

According to the USDA data on food insecurity in the United States, 1 in 8 Americans is at risk of hunger and Feeding America estimates that a food-insecure family of four may need the equivalent of nearly 100 additional meals a month.

"Hunger is pervasive, affecting virtually every county in the country," said Nancy Curby, interim senior vice president of development at Feeding America. "With support from partners like BJ's Wholesale Club, food and funds provide much needed support to families, offering stability and keeping meals on the table. We are incredibly grateful to have their ongoing support as a Leadership Partner of Feeding America."