Employees from local Publix Super Market stores kicked off a volunteering day in a very special way: donating the equivalent of 264,000 meals to support Golden Harvest Food Bank’s programming to feed hungry children. The donation is part of the $5 million that the grocer pledged to more than 240 nonprofit groups across its operating area on Aug. 9.

“For more than 50 years, we have been nourishing the communities in which Publix operates,” said Carol Jenkins Barnett, president of Publix Super Markets Charities. “Through these efforts, we’ve supported the plight of the hungry and homeless, recognizing the importance of proper nutrition and the access to food. Children, seniors and families should never have to wonder where they will find their next meal. Our Foundation is dedicated to providing more meals and giving more hope to our communities.”

According to the USDA, more than 41 million Americans live in food insecure households, including nearly 13 million children and 5 million seniors. Although food insecurity is harmful to any individual, it can be particularly devastating for children and seniors due to their increased vulnerability.

Following the check ceremony, Publix employees got to work sorting and inspecting food donations in the Faith Food Factory across the street from Golden Harvest’s main offices, 3310 Commerce Drive, Augusta. About 22 Publix employees from nearby stores in both Georgia and South Carolina had the chance to learn more about food bank food guidelines and how food goes from a donation bin to the pantry of someone in need.

“The impact of today is two-fold,” said Travis McNeal, executive director of Golden Harvest Food Bank. “Publix’s donation will touch the lives of so many children in need by providing them with nutritious weekend meals, and we know that seeing and hearing how their company’s support ripples through our community will touch these employees.”