MODESTO, Calif. — The Save Mart Companies and Keurig Dr Pepper have launched their annual Friends Feeding Friends holiday food drive, committing a combined $120,000 to support local food banks alongside customer donations.
The campaign runs through Jan. 3, 2027, at all Save Mart, Lucky and FoodMaxx stores across California and Western Nevada. Shoppers can contribute $5 or $10 through Pantry Pack donations at checkout, with all customer contributions benefiting local food banks.
Last year’s campaign raised more than $650,000 through customer donations and corporate contributions. Save Mart said it hopes to exceed that result this year.
“Friends Feeding Friends reflects the generosity of our customers, and last year’s response showed just how much we can accomplish when customers and partners rally behind a shared cause,” said Jim Thatcher, senior vice president of retail operations at The Save Mart Companies.
“With food insecurity affecting families in the communities we serve, we’re setting our sights even higher this year, and we’re inviting every shopper to help us get there. A single $5 Pantry Pack can help provide at least 15 meals to neighbors in need.”
Save Mart and Keurig Dr Pepper will each contribute $1,000 a day for 60 days, generating the $120,000 corporate commitment. Donations will remain in the communities where they are collected, directing support to food banks serving participating stores’ local markets.
The first distribution is planned for mid-December to provide assistance before the holidays. A second round will follow in early 2027, extending support into the winter months.
“We’re proud to continue our partnership with The Save Mart Companies through Friends Feeding Friends and help address food insecurity during the holiday season,” said Taylor Marcus, senior vice president and business unit general manager of Keurig Dr Pepper’s West business unit.
“Local food banks play a critical role in ensuring individuals and families have access to nutritious food, and we’re pleased to contribute to their efforts while encouraging shoppers to make a difference through this annual campaign.”
Blake Young, president and chief executive officer of Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services, said the campaign comes as demand for assistance is at an all-time high.
“Because of Friends Feeding Friends, more families in our community will be able to put food on the table this holiday season and into the new year,” Young said.
Save Mart also plans to add an online donation option to the Friends Feeding Friends pages on the Save Mart, Lucky and FoodMaxx websites. Details will be announced later.
