CINCINNATI – The Kroger Co. Zero Hunger | Zero Waste Foundation announced earlier this week that it is allocating $3 million to deploy hunger-relief resources to communities most impacted by coronavirus (COVID-19). 

"Our most urgent mission is to be here for our customers when they need us most, and our store, warehouse, distribution, food production and office associates are working around the clock to keep our stores open for our customers," said Keith Dailey, Kroger's group vice president of corporate affairs. "We're also mindful that the coronavirus pandemic may result in more of our neighbors struggling with food insecurity during this challenging time – and we want to help.” 

The commitment will be distributed between the foundation’s nonprofit partners Feeding America and No Kid Hungry, and will support nationwide foodbanks, and ensure children have access to nutritious meals. 

"Kroger's support enables food banks to secure the resources they need to serve the most vulnerable members of our communities during this difficult time,” said Claire Babineaux-Fontenot, chief executive officer of Feeding America. 

Kroger and its affiliates are also encouraging customers who can, to give directly to hunger-relief organizations. 

"Nearly 22 million children rely on the meals they receive at school," said Tom Nelson, president and CEO of Share Our Strength, the organization behind the No Kid Hungry campaign. "In partnership with The Kroger Co. Zero Hunger | Zero Waste Foundation, No Kid Hungry is actively funding emergency grants to food banks and nonprofit groups in the hardest-hit communities, helping families know how to find meals while schools are closed and ensuring every child has access to three meals a day."