Food Industry Rallies Around Relief Effort.

In the wake of the terrorist attack on the United States many food companies have stepped to the forefront by donating funds and products as well as creating public donation centers to help with the disaster relief effort. All of the following companies, and the many that have committed efforts not described in the following paragraphs, are applauded for their efforts.

Albertson's, Inc. has begun an in- store fundraising program in Albertson's and its family of stores as well as hosting blood drives in the coming weeks. The company also has agreed to match up to $50,000 in donations. All money collected will be donated to the American Red Cross National Disaster Relief Fund. The fundraising program, which is effective immediately, will run for a minimum of four weeks.

Pathmark Supermarkets announced two programs in its efforts to help with relief. Customers may contribute up to $5 at all Pathmark Supermarkets by using in-store scan cards. All funds collected will be provided to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief. Additionally, Pathmark is donating truckloads of vital products to help the victims of the disaster as well as providing food and other materials to the rescue workers.

Fleming announced that it has established an emergency relief plan. Company activities will focus on employee and customer blood donations, volunteering, monetary and in-kind contributions. Fleming will also match any financial contributions from employees and customers to the Red Cross. Additionally, Fleming announced that its company-owned stores will be accepting customer donations for the American Red Cross' relief operations.

Kroger food stores are accepting donations to benefit the American Red Cross disaster relief fund. Kroger shoppers at all stores can round up their grocery bills or make a donation via check or credit card. One hundred percent of the donations will be provided to the American Red Cross disaster relief fund.

The Great Atlantic & Pacific Tea Company, Inc. (A&P) announced that it will collect customer donations, in the form of cash or checks, at the courtesy counters in all stores. All proceeds will be donated directly to the American Red Cross disaster relief fund. In addition, A&P will make a corporate donation to the fund.

Procter & Gamble Co. and Kraft Foods Inc. said they were preparing to dispatch their products through the American Red Cross. "We are definitely in touch with them and are awaiting word as to what might be needed," said Linda Ulrey, a spokeswoman for Cincinnati, Ohio-based P&G. The company, which in the past has assisted victims of national disasters including earthquakes and floods, is prepared to supply a broad range of items across its portfolio, including cleaning supplies, diapers, toothpaste, and some foods, she said.

Cereal maker General Mills Inc. donated $100,000 in cash to the American Red Cross and another $100,000 in food that will be used primarily to feed emergency workers and medical personnel, said Tom Forsythe, a spokesman for the Minneapolis, Minnesota-based company.