As the saying goes, a little bit goes a long way. And, on April 17 — Publix Serves Day — thousands of you gave your time and effort to make a big difference in your communities.

To recap, each district received $1,085 to put toward a community service project of their choice. Whether they cooked and served meals, landscaped community centers or spent time with children or seniors, our associates were proud to represent Publix in giving back to their communities.

“This has been a great day,” said District Manager Barbara Batchelder. “A big thank you to everyone who allowed us this opportunity to do this as a company project; it says a lot about what we are all about.”

Added District Manager Trent Collins, “It was a great team-building effort that really got our teams motivated to serve our community. Our selected organization [LaGrange Personal Aid Association] was very excited and benefitted greatly from our work.”

Take a look at some of the different projects completed on Publix Serves Day. They tell the story of our associates’ commitment to giving back and serving our communities. In addition to this month’s Publix News Live, there are more than 260 photos organized by division, so be sure to scroll through to check them out.

“It’s hard to believe we GET to live Mr. George’s legacy — it’s a blessing and an honor. I hope we keep doing things like this in the future.”
— Store Manager Bryant McClenaghan
#474, Columbus, Georgia
Bryant served at the Homeless Resource Center, Columbus, Georgia.

“I love participating in community service. It leads to a better future for tomorrow and our community.”
— Front Service Clerk Kim Parker
#791, Mulberry, Florida
Kim served at the Boys and Girls Club, Lakeland, Florida.

“It was a very exciting day for Publix and our communities. It feels great to work for a company that truly strives to do the right thing!”
— District Manager Jeff Pevoroff
Jeff’s associates served the Winter Park Day Nursery, Winter Park, Florida.

“Our customers are learning about our culture of giving back to the community — that we’re more than just a grocery store — and they really appreciate it. And, [Publix Serves Day] opened a door for our associates to see how easy it is to volunteer.”
— Assistant Store Manager Franky Mendez
#1470, Mint Hill, North Carolina
Franky served at the Boys and Girls Club, Charlotte, North Carolina.

“We strive to be responsible citizens, and it makes me proud to work for a company that sticks with something we started from day one.”
— Grocery Manager Anthony Palacios
#1084, St. Johns, Florida
Anthony served at Wolfson’s Children’s Hospital, Jacksonville, Florida.

“The teamwork this event created for our district and Publix is immeasurable. My associates loved the day and are asking, ‘When are we doing this again?’ … I could not have been more proud of my team and their efforts. Thank you, Publix, for supporting this day.”
— District Manager Jim Bushee
Jim’s associates served The Children’s Home, Tampa, Florida.

“[Publix Serves Day] was a hard day’s work, but my aches and pains never felt so good. I have always been proud to say I work at Publix, but I must admit there was something special about today.”
—District Manager Luis Gonzalez
Luis’s associates served Pinion, Inc., Margate, Florida.

“It makes you feel so good to give. I’ve been at Publix 35 years and to see this — this is what it’s all about. How can you not be a part of this?!”
—Deli Retail Improvement Specialist Linda Bringger
Linda served at Pivot Charter School, Tamarac, Florida.

“With heartfelt thanks and tremendous appreciation, Branches would like to thank you for choosing us to give back! Today, you and your managers tackled several key tasks that we would not have been able to do without adequate manpower and supplies. I hope you left our premises with a sense of pride, because we are truly grateful. Thank you!”
—AmeriCorps & Volunteers Program Manager Denise Rainey of Branches, which focuses on student achievement, family services and financial stability

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