Community Markets and parent company Fresh Encounter, Inc. are doing their part to help alleviate food shortage concerns throughout the state of Ohio by donating over $13,000 to area food banks and shelters.

Bluffton Community Assistance Corporation food bank will be receiving $1,500 to assist with local food shortages. “We don’t think families across Ohio and Indiana should be worrying about the source of their next meal,” stated Fresh Encounter President/CEO Michael Needler, Jr.; “It’s a start, and we plan on donating even more to additional worthwhile charities over the remainder of the year.”

The funds raised were part of a collaborative effort between Community Markets, local customers and Making Change (a 501-3-5 non-profit organization that promotes human dignity, wellness and self-sufficient communities.)  Customer donations at the point of check-out are the heart of the program, with a majority of the funds supporting local non-profit organizations focusing on food assistance.

“We are doing all we can to support our communities by hiring local, sourcing local products and giving back to local economies”, commented Needler; “There is no greater cause than to support the communities where we live and work. The Bluffton Community Assistance Program shares that same philosophy.” 

Fresh Encounter, Inc., headquartered in Findlay, Ohio, is the parent company of Community Markets, Sack & Save and Great Scot supermarkets. Operating 27 stores throughout Ohio and Indiana, Fresh Encounter is a leading Midwest family owned supermarket operator with emphasis on locally sourced produce, premium meats and exceptional customer service.

Making Change is a non-profit organization enabling retailers to provide support to non-profit agencies whose missions are to promote health, education and community spirit.