PS Food Mart Raises Money for Food Banks in Michigan and Ohio

HOMER, Mich. -- PS Food Mart stores in Michigan and Ohio will raise money for the second annual "Fight Hunger. Give Hope" campaign, the company announced.

From March 18 through April 3, 30 PS Food Mart stores in South Central Michigan and Northwest Ohio will invite customers to purchase paper hearts for $1 or $5. All proceeds will be collected by PS Food Mart supplier Folk Oil and delivered to local food banks.

"Every dollar counts in the battle against hunger in this country. Just one dollar, about the same as a small cup of coffee, will provide eight meals. A five dollar donation will ensure that 40 people have a good meal," said Jim Linton, vice president with PS Food Mart. "We are excited to lead our PS Food Mart managers and employees in this ongoing effort to make our community stronger and healthier."

For the first three days of the campaign, customers who donate $5 or more will receive one free 20-ounce coffee or fountain drink. Every customer who donates any amount will receive a paper heart with their name on it to be posted within the store, and PS Food mart will honor customers who donate $100 or more with special golden hearts. Customers will also be able to donate their spare change via collection boxes on store counters.

"We are extremely grateful to have the strength and support of PS Food Mart as our dedicated partner as to help in our mission of eradicating hunger in our communities," said Robert Randels, executive director of the Food Bank of South Central Michigan. "Their efforts to not only raise money, but also to educate local people on the issues that face tens of thousands of families in our area, are truly inspiring. We are confident that their enthusiasm and support will help break last year’s fundraising goal and allow us to help even more families throughout the region."

This year's goal contribution is $45,000, the company said.