For the last 40 years, Publix has partnered with Special Olympics to help athletes discover new strengths, abilities, skills and success through sports. In 2019, customers and associates helped raise more than $4.8 million for the organization through our Light the Torch campaign. This year, customers and associates can continue supporting athletes by purchasing paper torches for $1, $3, $5 or $10 at checkout Jan. 1 – 12.

The mission of Special Olympics is to provide free year-round sports training and competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for people with intellectual disabilities. Through the program, athletes develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy, and build skills and friendships within their communities.

“Publix has a long-standing history of supporting Special Olympics and its athletes, beginning in 1972 when Mr. George paid for Florida athletes to attend the second world games in Los Angeles, California,” said Director of Media and Community Relations Maria Brous. “Supporting Special Olympics is part of our commitment to being involved with our communities, and it’s an honor to continue to help them achieve their mission.”

Front Service Clerk Matt Harrington, #802, Venice, Florida, has been a Special Olympics athlete for 20 years. After competing in swimming, track and field, basketball and tennis, he now focuses solely on his golf game, winning fourth place in the 2018 USA Games. In addition to competing, Matt also serves as a Special Olympics Global Messenger, sharing the organization’s mission and impact throughout the country. He says his involvement with Special Olympics has helped him gain self-confidence and become a better leader.

Visit the Special Olympics website to learn more about the lives impacted, sports offered and volunteer opportunities.