DALLAS -- 7-Eleven Inc. is joining the Feeding America network of food banks in a pay-it-forward "banana benevolence" campaign to buy bananas for food-insecure individuals and families in the United States.
To participate, 7-Eleven customers can purchase two Del Monte bananas for $1, which will be donated to Feeding America and distributed through its network of local food banks to families in need.
For every two bananas a customer donates, 7-Eleven also will contribute an additional dime for the Feeding America network, up to $100,000. The campaign runs from November 6 through December 2.
"Too many families suffer from hunger in our country, and this is a quick and easy way 7-Eleven and the people who shop our stores can help," said Nancy Smith, 7-Eleven senior vice president of merchandising. "Fresh produce is always highly requested at food banks and is important to good nutrition, especially for children. Our goal is to donate, with the help of our customers, bunches of bananas before the end of the year."
Customers who make a contribution at their local 7-Eleven store can choose to sign a holiday donation recognition card to be displayed in the store during the campaign. The retailer hopes to donate at least two million bananas to local food banks through the holiday campaign.
Because the banana donations are tax-deductible, customers should ask a store associate for a receipt.
The retailer is promoting the campaign on social media sites like Twitter and Facebook.
"This holiday season 7-Eleven will support our focus on providing more nutrient-rich food choices for our clients," said Nancy Curby, vice president of corporate partnerships at Feeding America. "This program provides a way for consumers to get involved in one of the most pressing issues our country is facing and support hunger-relief efforts at such a vital time."
Dallas-based 7-Eleven operates franchises or licenses more than 10,300 convenience stores in North America. Globally, there are more than 54,000 7-Eleven c-stores in 16 countries. During 2013, 7-Eleven stores generated total worldwide sales close to $84.5 billion.
Members help make our journalism possible. Become a CSP member today and unlock exclusive benefits, including unlimited access to all of our content. Sign up here.