Watch CBS News

Hiller's, AT&T And Media Members Team Up To Provide 21,000 Meals To Gleaners (Video)

By Edward Cardenas

COMMERCE TOWNSHIP (CBS Detroit) - Members of the Detroit media took to the aisles of Hiller's Market in Commerce Township in the AT&T Grocery Grab to collect non-perishable grocery items for Gleaner's Community Food Bank.

Members of the media - including a representative from WWJ - raced against the clock in a three-minute shopping sprint to select items including cereal, peanut butter, canned fruits and vegetables and pancake mix.

"Today is all about helping families during the time they need it most during the holidays," said Justin Hiller, Hiller's Markets vice president, who said the supermarket chain has had a long-standing relationship with Gleaners. "Philanthropy is so important for Hiller's. We have a 20-year long long-standing relationship with Gleaners."

The family owned, seven-location Hiller's Markets chain donates to charities throughout the year, including Gleaners.

"A lot of people they want to help, they just don't know where and when," Hiller added. "We try to make it as easy as possible."

AT&T will donate $7,000 worth of food from Hiller's Market to Gleaner's Community Food Bank. The food will provide 21,000 meals in metro Detroit.

This donation comes at an important time for the food bank, as meals are needed for not only Christmas dinners but also for families in need throughout the holiday break.

Over 300,000 kids in southeast Michigan receive free and reduced lunches, Gleaners communications director Omari Taylor said, and during the winter break, they don't have access to those meals.

"These donations are going to really be a real big help to families in need this holiday season," said Taylor, who added that while the economy is improving, there is still a need for donated food. "We are still seeing families in need."

To donate, or to learn more about Gleaners, visit their website or call (313) 923-3535.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.