Schnucks Updates Charity Partnership Guidelines
Schnuck Markets Inc. has created new guidelines for nonprofit organizations looking to solicit customers for contributions.
The Midwestern grocer’s updated policy limits the frequency of on-site, customer-direct solicitations, allowing only solicitors with regional or companywide events and programs with 501(c)(3) organizations that are similar in regional size and scope; have missions that align clearly with the grocer’s corporate priorities in hunger, human services, and health and wellness; and have a reputable brand.
“Our goal is to ensure a consistent, high-quality experience for our customers and keep strong the community partnerships we have nourished since this company was founded,” said Schnucks Chairman and CEO Todd Schnuck. “Our expanded community engagement programs and updated policy provide a clear participation path for the many nonprofit organizations across the communities we serve.”
For more local, community-based organizations, Schnucks is debuting Bags 4 My Cause, which allows nonprofits to apply to receive proceeds from reusable-bag sales from a local store for a month. This enables stores to build community support through donations to hunger relief organizations and causes of importance to customers, associates and neighborhoods, while providing visibility for charitable grass-roots organizations.
Additionally, smaller nonprofits that don’t meet guidelines for a regional or companywide partnership, or the Bags 4 My Cause program, can participate in My Schnucks Card, a program that allows shoppers to raise money for their chosen schools or nonprofits each time they shop at Schnucks.
The updated policy is intended to build on Schnucks’ commitment to the community: The grocer gives more than $13 million annually in food to pantries and more than $1.7 million to not-for-profit organizations through My Schnucks Card.
St. Louis-based Schnuck Markets Inc. operates 100 stores in Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin and Iowa, employing 14,000 associates.