Operations
Chick-fil-A operators donate 10M meals
July 26, 2021
Chick-fil-A and its franchisees recently surpassed the 10 million meal-mark for donations to those in need through the brand's Shared Table program, which helps fight food insecurity, according to a news release.
Since its inception in 2012, the food donation program has grown to include more than 1,200 participating restaurants across 47 states and Washington, D.C., ensuring leftover food from Chick-fil-A restaurant kitchens is turned into meals for those who may otherwise go hungry.
"At Chick-fil-A, we are committed to making a positive impact in the local communities we serve, and the Chick-fil-A Shared Table program is one way we help care for those in need. …" Rodney Bullard, Chick-fil-A vice president of Corporate Social Responsibility said in the release. "Not only is the Chick-fil-A Shared Table program a sustainable solution for utilizing surplus food, but it is also a program that makes a tangible impact in our communities as we continue to fight food insecurity."
In partnership with Food Donation Connection, the Chick-fil-A Shared Table program matches Chick-fil-A restaurants with local shelters, soup kitchens and nonprofits. Once matched, restaurant teams package surplus food for partner organizations to pick up and distribute to those in need.
"About 80% of surplus food in our restaurant is now distributed through the Chick-fil-A Shared Table program," Steve Lowery, Chick-fil-A operator in Springfield, Missouri, said in the release. "This includes items such as chicken, eggs, biscuits, as well as salads and wraps. Through this program, we've had the opportunity to fill a need in our community and we are humbled by the opportunity to give back in this way."
"We're thankful to be a partner of the Chick-fil-A Shared Table program, which helps us provide meals to hundreds of people in need every week," said Bill DeHass, director of community services for Clermont Senior Services Lifelong Learning Centers, which distributes food to seniors in Cincinnati, Ohio. "Through this partnership, seniors are provided a hot meal at our centers and thoroughly enjoy the dishes that incorporate Chick-fil-A menu items."
In addition to the Chick-fil-A Shared Table program, Chick-fil-A has an established partnership with Feeding America to further its commitment to fighting hunger. In honor of each new restaurant opening, Chick-fil-A donates $25,000 to Feeding America, with the aim of funds being distributed to partners within the restaurant's community to aid in the fight against hunger. Since the Feeding America partnership began in 2020, Chick-fil-A has contributed $6 million to-date to advance Feeding America's mission of ensuring equitable access to nutritious food.
Atlanta-based Chick-fil-A has more than 2,600 restaurants in 47 states, Washington, D.C., and Canada.
