Food Lion Feeds announces plans to transform more than 40 food pantries across 10 states

As part of its Great Pantry Makeover every September, Food Lion Feeds plans to transform 38 community feeding partner pantries across its 10-state operating area through its annual initiative.

The effort, which includes remodeling and stocking food pantries, expands access to nutritious food while addressing food insecurity. Food Lion associates also will provide more than 900 volunteer hours through its largest associate volunteer effort. The Food Lion Feeds program was founded in 2014 by Food Lion to address food insecurity in the towns and cities it serves.

The Great Pantry Makeover takes place every September to align with Hunger Action Month, a time when Food Lion Feeds deepens its existing relationship with Feeding America. The partnership highlights the impact food can have on a person’s life and inspires action to end hunger in their communities, the company said. Since 2015, Food Lion Feeds has renovated or supported more than 320 food pantries.

“At Food Lion, we believe no one should have to choose between dinner and rent or gas and groceries,” said Kevin Durkee, manager of Food Lion Feeds. “When we collaborate with our community feeding partners to create innovative solutions, such as pantry makeovers, we increase access to nutritious food so our neighbors and their families can have the nourishment they deserve.”

[Read more: Food Lion Feeds helps nourish college students]

During the 30-day effort, Food Lion associates volunteer for activities such as painting and cleaning pantries or installing shelving, freezers, coolers and other equipment to expand capacity for fresh fruits, vegetables and other items. Additionally, Food Lion associates will stock each food pantry with more than 3,000 pounds of shelf-stable food provided by the grocer.

[Read more: Food Lion highlights initiatives to promote healthier living]