Menards home improvement stores nationwide are partnering with local food pantries for a food drive. Store locations in Pekin, Peoria, and Washington are serving as donation drop sites for area food pantries.
The store has been conducting food drives over the past decade, according to spokesperson Jeff Abbott. This one will run through March and be followed by two pet supplies drives, another food drive and a toy drive to end the year.
“We feel that public relations and being good citizens within our local communities are good for the communities and good for our business,” Abbott said. “In 2025, we’re going to have a drive every month. That’s how we’ve stepped it up. In the past, we had them maybe three months out of the year.”
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Menards will accept non-perishable items purchased at its store or elsewhere. Brandon Jasinski, general manager of Menards location in Washington, said its drive will help the Washington Helps Its People food pantry.
“The food drive and the other donations within our local communities are a great way to give back a little bit,” he added. “They help bring business into the stores and give customers a chance to help out their neighbors.”
Based in Eau Clair, Wisconsin, Menards has 351 locations in 15 states. The Peoria-area stores are located at 3535 Court Street, Pekin; 2627 W. Townline Road, Peoria; and 1975 Freedom Parkway, Washington.
This article originally appeared on Journal Star: Menards stores around Peoria collecting donations for local food pantries