Kroger supporting hurricane disaster relief response

The Kroger Co. says it is supporting disaster relief with activations, food and funds throughout regions impacted by Hurricane Helene.

"Our associates, customers, communities and neighbors are deeply affected in the Hurricane Helene aftermath, and we are joining forces with organizations across the country to step up and provide support," Kroger Chairman and CEO Rodney McMullen said in a news release. "Rescue crews and relief organizations on the ground are only now assessing the impact and beginning the long road to recovery. We hope Kroger's support will feed the spirit of those who are affected and those helping the communities rebuild."

Kroger said it is making it easy for customers seeking to help through support relief efforts by rounding up their purchase to the nearest dollar or making a donation at checkout stations at Harris Teeter locations and all Kroger stores across the Atlanta and Nashville divisions. The donations, as well as a matching grant from the Kroger Co. Foundation, will benefit the American Red Cross, which is supported annually by the foundation to help fund disaster relief efforts such as recovery from Hurricane Helene, the release said. Customers can donate in-store at registers through the end of October.

Kroger said it is also distributing truckloads of drinkable water and ice to communities in need and plans to continue distribution in the coming days. The retailer said it intends to increase relief efforts over the coming days and weeks as community needs continue to evolve.

Kroger is a longtime supporter of the United Service Organizations and sponsor of the USO-Kroger Mobile Canteens that are deployed to impacted areas to support the National Guard who is helping with disaster relief efforts and military service members personally impacted by the hurricane, according to the release. The units provide food, drinks and a place to rest and recharge for service members answering this urgent call to serve. The company said it will also support the USO with gift cards.

Additionally, Kroger thanked vendors from the Kroger Wellness Festival that donated eligible products to hurricane disaster relief efforts after the event was cancelled due to impacts from Hurricane Helene.