CHICAGO –Oct. 21, 2009 –
Feeding America, the nation's largest domestic hunger relief organization, today announced that they have received a donation of 10 million meals raised by Macy's and its customers. The donation was made possible by a partnership between Macy's and Feeding America called"Come Together," which launched on Sept. 13. The"Come Together" campaign urged the public to donate to Feeding America by hosting dinner parties in their homes and asking their guests to contribute to Feeding America in lieu of bringing a host gift or a bottle of wine. Donations were made on macys.com/cometogether or in any Macy's store, and Macy's matched those donations dollar for dollar through October 21.
This innovative awareness and fundraising campaign helped us in many ways," said Vicki Escarra, president and CEO of Feeding America."'Come Together'" raised awareness of the pervasiveness of domestic hunger. More than 36 million Americans live at risk of hunger – meaning that they do not always know where they will find their next meal. Secondly, it provided a variety of simple easy ways for Americans to help their neighbors by hosting dinner parties, donating on line, donating directly at Macy's stores, or by attending one of the dozens of fund-raising events held at Macy's stores. Most importantly, this partnership resulted in a very sizeable donation to Feeding America – the equivalent of more than 10 million meals, coming to our food banks at a time of record-breaking demand. Macy's matched each dollar donated, dollar to dollar."
"Macy's has been a long-time supporter of Feeding America," said Escarra."Their 'Bag Hunger' volunteer program raised 9.7 million pounds of food this past summer alone."
"Macy's Come Together campaign for Feeding America created a special reason for family and friends to spend quality time together this fall while supporting a cause that impacts local communities across the country," said Peter Sachse, Macy's chief marketing officer."Providing 10 million meals for the hungry in the U.S. is a remarkable achievement. We thank our customers, communities, business partners and associates who all contributed to the success of this great effort."
The"Come Together" campaign was supported by robust national marketing that included in-store displays, direct mail, print advertising and a television campaign that featured Jessica Simpson, Queen Latifah, Mariah Carey, Usher, Martha Stewart, Emeril Lagasse, Tommy Hilfiger and Donald Trump.
Macy's hosted a dinner party during New York Fashion Week on September 15th in its flagship Herald Square store. The event, hosted by Martha Stewart and Emeril
Lagasse benefitted Feeding America. More than 650 full-line Macy's stores across the country also participated in the World's Largest Dinner Party on September 15. Additionally, Macys Culinary Council chefs hosted fundraising dinner parties in more than 30 Macy's stores throughout campaign.
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About Feeding America
Rooted in the voices of neighbors facing hunger, Feeding America unites the country ensuring everyone has access to food and a thriving future. We support tens of millions of people as part of a nationwide network of 250+ food banks, 20+ statewide food bank associations, 10+ regional co-ops and 60,000+ agency partners, food pantries and meal programs. Powered by leaders and volunteers embedded in local communities, we are one of the nation’s most effective food distribution systems driving immediate impact today—and a catalyst for long-term change through advocating for legislation that improves food security and work to address its factors. We partner with people experiencing food insecurity, policymakers, organizations and supporters united with the unwavering commitment to provide nourishing food and work to end hunger at its roots so everyone can live fuller, healthier lives. Visit FeedingAmerica.org to learn more.