In recognition of Hunger Action Month this September, Wawa and The Wawa Foundation have announced a $120,000 grant to the Community Food Bank of New Jersey as part of a broader nationwide initiative distributing $1.684 million to 40 Feeding America food banks.
The funding is delivered through The Wawa Foundation’s Fly Beyond® program, which targets youth food insecurity by expanding access to nutritious meals and snacks through school- and community-based initiatives.
A multi-pronged approach to hunger relief
In addition to the direct grant funding, Wawa is leveraging its store footprint across New Jersey and its operating footprint to fight food insecurity year-round:
- “Buy a Kids Meal, Make an Impact” Initiative: Customers who purchase a Wawa Kids Meal (which includes an entrée, side, and beverage) trigger an automatic donation from Wawa to local Feeding America partner food banks. Since the program’s launch in 2024, Wawa has raised over $1.86 million through kids meal purchases.
- Massive Food Donations: Since 2013, Wawa’s Food Donation Connection program has successfully diverted more than 45 million pounds of surplus hot food express items to local food banks.
Supporting New Jersey communities
New Jersey food banks feature prominently in this year’s nationwide Fly Beyond® grant allocations, underscoring the retailer’s deep regional roots. Major Garden State grant recipients include:
- Community Food Bank of New Jersey (Hillside): $120,000
- Food Bank of South Jersey (Pennsauken): $110,000
- The Food Bank of Monmouth & Ocean Counties (Neptune): $65,000
“As a food and beverage retailer, we are committed to working with Feeding America Food Banks to help relieve hunger in our 14-state operating area all year,” Liz Simeone, president of The Wawa Foundation, said. “And for Hunger Action Month this September, we are proud to provide direct grants, in-kind food and provide an easy way for the community to help relieve hunger through our Buy a Kids Meal, Make an Impact program!”
Since 2014, Wawa and The Wawa Foundation have collectively contributed over $215 million in grants toward health, hunger, and everyday heroes in the communities they serve.
