Carlisle, PA  GIANT Food Stores and MARTIN'S Food Markets today announced a $435,305 donation in the fight against hunger throughout its operating areas. During the two-week Bag Hunger campaign, February 28 - March 13, customers were asked to donate $1 at the checkout to benefit their regional food banks and local pantries. This is the first of two in-store Bag Hunger campaigns at GIANT and MARTIN'S this year; the second is scheduled to coincide with Hunger Action Month, which is observed each September.

"As a grocer, the fight against hunger is an important cause where we can make a significant impact," said Rick Herring, president. "Our generous customers, associates, and vendors have once again delivered much-needed funds for regional food banks, local pantries and soup kitchens. We're especially proud that our Bag Hunger campaigns call others to action while raising awareness about the issue of hunger in our communities."

Recipient food banks include the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank, Philabundance, Second Harvest Food Bank of Lehigh Valley, the Food Bank of Western Maryland, Food Resources of Washington County, and the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank.

In 2009, GIANT and MARTIN'S donated $4.1 million in customer, product and corporate donations to regional food banks and local pantries across Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia and West Virginia.

About GIANT/MARTIN'S

The Giant-Carlisle Division of Ahold USA, headquartered in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, is a leading supermarket chain in Pennsylvania, Virginia, Maryland and West Virginia with grocery stores operating under the names of GIANT Food Stores and MARTIN'S Food Markets. GIANT and MARTIN'S are proud to work with hundreds of local organizations in the communities they serve and have a long-standing commitment to eradicate hunger and improve the quality of life for children. For more information visit www.GiantFoodStores.com and www.MartinsFoods.com.