Stop & Shop Launches 6th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Essay Contest

The Stop & Shop Supermarket Co. LLC has rolled out the 6th Annual Black History Month Essay Contest to pay tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the national observance in February 2012. The aims of the contest are to increase knowledge and awareness of the importance of volunteerism and King’s legacy, support corporate diversity and inspire youth to consider their individual role in building character and community involvement, according to the Quincy, Mass.-based grocery chain.

Students in grades 6 through 8 attending schools in Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Rhode Island and New Hampshire are eligible to enter the contest, provided they comply with all criteria listed in the ules and guidelines at www.stopandshop.com.

Students must submit the application package, which consists of entry form and essay, by U.S. mail no later than Dec. 31. The essays should address the theme “Making a difference – What can you do to help fight hunger in your community”? Each submission will be judged according to its originality, creativity and adherence to the essay topic. Two winners will be chosen from every grade level, and each winner will receive checks of up to $750. Winners will be informed on or about Feb. 6, 2012.

Additionally, Stop & Shop will celebrate Black History Month in February 2012 with the release of its annual “Profiles in Excellence” brochure featuring African-American cuisine throughout history.

A division of Ahold USA, Stop & Shop employs about 62,000 associates and operates almost 400 stores in Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New Hampshire, New York, and New Jersey.