Publix Super Markets Charities announced it will donate $5 million to more than 240 nonprofit organizations, including Feeding America® member food banks, focused on alleviating hunger across Publix's operating area. The donation will provide funding to assist these nonprofit organizations in the nourishment of children, seniors and families in need. Over the past four years, Publix Super Market Charities has contributed more than $17 million to hunger-related programs.

Locally, Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee is receiving $100,000 that will go towards refrigerated food trailers that will store perishable food at the newly opened Smyrna distribution location. Through its main headquarters in Nashville, the new Smyrna distribution center and one being constructed in Benton county, Second Harvest Food Bank serves 46 counties in Middle and West Tennessee. Approximately 30 percent of all the food distributed to those facing food insecurity by Second Harvest is perishable, and the new trailers will help preserve the quality of the food as its being sent out, as well as allowing for increased donations and poundage at the facility.

"Without partners like Publix and its Foundation, we could not do the work that we do," said Jaynee Day, President & CEO of Second Harvest. "Over the years, their donations and commitment to Second Harvest has totaled more than $1.2 million, and today's donation will help us further our mission of seeing that anyone who is hungry has access to nutritious food."