A new program will provide monthly income to food banks across the Northeast and eliminate the need for an estimated 1.5 million disposable shopping bags next year, Hannaford Supermarkets recently announced.

Durable “Fight Hunger” shopping bags are now available in the checkout area of every Hannaford store. For each bag sold, Hannaford will donate 25 cents to that area’s food bank and help provide meals to people in need.  The vinyl bags are available for $1.29.

Hannaford anticipates selling hundreds of thousands of the bags a year, providing a new income stream for food banks. The amount donated to each organization will vary, depending on the number of bags sold within its area.

“When someone buys a reusable Fight Hunger bag, they are helping the environment and fighting hunger at the same time,” said Eric Blom, Hannaford spokesman.  “The program provides a meaningful, ongoing source of income to food banks and an easy way for customers to help feed hungry individuals.”

Fight Hunger bags build on existing Hannaford programs that donate several million pounds of food annually, provide financial support and give other assistance to anti-hunger efforts in the Northeast.  Every Hannaford store has a relationship with local food pantries, in addition to the work that Hannaford does with state and regional food banks.

Food banks in Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, New York and Massachusetts will benefit from ongoing contributions.

About Hannaford Supermarkets
Hannaford Supermarkets, based in Scarborough, Maine, operates 184 stores in the Northeast. Stores are located in Maine, New York, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Vermont. All Hannaford stores feature Guiding Stars, America’s first storewide nutrition navigation system, and most stores have full-service pharmacies. Hannaford employs more than 26,000 associates. Additional information can be found at www.hannaford.com.