The large Southern U.S. grocery store chain Publix is working to keep Southeast Florida farmers in business while also supplying those in need during this difficult coronavirus pandemic. The supermarket giant announced a new initiative Wednesday to purchase fresh produce and milk from farmers, which would then be donated to Feeding America food banks.

 Publix Chief Executive Officer, Todd Jones said, “As a food retailer, we have the unique opportunity to bridge the gap between the needs of families and farmers impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. In this time of uncertainty, we are grateful to be able to help Florida’s produce farmers, southeastern dairies and families in our communities.”

Publix also released the following statement this week. “Farmers who normally sell their goods to restaurants, schools and hotels are being left without buyers, meaning they are dealing with a huge glut of inventory. In many cases, farmers have no choice but to dump huge amounts of dairy and produce."  The company is donating more than 150,000 pounds of produce and 43,5000 gallons of milk during the first week of this initiative alone.