Meijer Delivers ‘Baskets of Love’

Meijer is partnering with the Chicagoland Italian American Charitable Organization to give families in need a memorable Thanksgiving meal.

The Grand Rapids, Mich.-based retailer donated nearly $10,000 in gift cards, which were used to buy food to create “Baskets of Love” for 500 Chicago-area families this Thanksgiving. Additionally, Chicago-area Meijer employees will volunteer their time to help pack and deliver the baskets. Each basket weighs more than 50 pounds, and contains a turkey, pasta sauce, stuffing, canned cranberries and more.

“Meijer is pleased to be a part of such a worthwhile community tradition that helps brighten families’ spirits as they gather together for the holidays,” said Brian Murty, group VP of operations for Meijer’s Western Region. “Meijer is committed to helping the community and giving back to those in need.”

Families receiving baskets were identified through churches, shelters and other area organizations.

CIACO Baskets of Love Committee Chairman Vito Cavallo said this event is one of the best the group puts on for families in need. “We know that we are going to affect some families in a real positive way,” he said. “We have received thank-you letters from families who told us that if it had not been for CIACO, Thanksgiving would have been just another Thursday. We greatly appreciate the support of Meijer and its team members.”

Annually, Meijer donates more than 6 percent of its net profits to charity. Meijer opened its first Chicago-area store in Bolingbrook in 1999, and now has 14 stores in the Chicago area ranging in size from full supercenters to smaller, grocery-focused stores in Niles and Orland Park.