Brookshire Grocery Co. announced it would deliver Christmas cheer to families in need through its 34th annual Spirit of Christmas Food Drive.
Brookshire operates grocery stores in Mabank, Malakoff and Seven Points on Cedar Creek Lake.
Beginning Nov. 18 and continuing through Dec. 22, all Brookshire’s, Super 1 Foods and FRESH by Brookshire’s stores throughout Texas, Louisiana and Arkansas will be collecting donations of non-perishable food items, which will be donated to local service organizations and food pantries for distribution. Customers may also purchase pre-assembled “grab bags” for $5 or scan coupons for $1 or $5, which will be used to purchase additional food items.
The goal is to provide a week’s worth of food to approximately 15,000 families throughout BGC’s market area. Families will receive a box of non-perishable food items such as canned vegetables, rice and pasta, as well as a coupon for a free roasting hen.
“Brookshire Grocery Co. wants to make a difference in the community, and our annual Spirit of Christmas Food Drive is one way we try to do that,” said Rick Rayford, BGC President and CEO. “The food drive also gives our customers the opportunity to join BGC in our efforts to help families throughout our market areas have the food they need during the holiday season.”
The Spirit of Christmas Food Drive began in Tyler in 1982 with the Rose City Kiwanis Club, with approximately 90 families in the Tyler area receiving assistance. Last year was the most successful food drive thus far, with a more than 25 percent increase in overall sales of grab bags and scan coupons over the previous year. Approximately 16,000 households throughout the BGC’s market area were assisted through the food drive. In total, approximately 500,000 pounds of food were collected and donated to local service organizations and food pantries for distribution to families in need.
Brookshire Grocery Co. operates 152 stores in three states -- Texas, Louisiana and Arkansas -- with three distribution centers and five manufacturing facilities. Known for friendly service, clean stores and strong community support, BGC has been in operation since 1928.
