Whole Foods Market stands as a beacon for nourishing both people and the planet, extending its commitment far beyond grocery shelves. Through its Community Giving programs, Whole Foods Market dedicates substantial resources to address pressing needs within the communities it serves. Aligning with organizations that share its core values of nurturing individuals and environmental stewardship, Whole Foods Market proudly supports thousands of impactful nonprofit initiatives annually.
Empowering Local Communities: Store Directed Giving
Whole Foods Market’s dedication to hyperlocal support shines through its Store Directed Giving program. This initiative channels resources to community-based nonprofit organizations deeply rooted in missions that resonate with Whole Foods’ ethos: nourishing people and the planet. These vital community investments are thoughtfully guided by Whole Foods Market team members themselves. Through a democratic voting process held twice a year, team members directly decide which local nonprofits receive funding, ensuring that support is genuinely community-led and impactful at the grassroots level.
Learn more about our charitable giving.
In-Kind Donations: Whole Foods Products for Local Impact
Beyond monetary contributions, Whole Foods Market’s In-Kind Donation program provides another avenue for community support. Local nonprofit organizations can directly request valuable in-kind product donations from their neighborhood Whole Foods Market stores throughout the year. This program operates independently from the Store Directed Giving monetary vote, offering a continuous stream of whole foods and essential products to organizations serving community needs. These donations can range from fresh produce and pantry staples to prepared meals, directly supporting local food banks, shelters, and community kitchens.
Find out more about our donation program.
Austin Community Giving: Hometown Support for Whole Foods Market’s Base
Recognizing its roots in Austin, Texas, Whole Foods Market extends additional support through the Austin Community Giving program. Nonprofit organizations based in Austin can apply for supplementary monetary grants, further amplifying the impact of Hometown Giving. This program underscores Whole Foods Market’s commitment to its local community where the company was founded and continues to thrive, ensuring that Austin-based initiatives receive focused attention and resources.
Explore the program.
Nourishing Our Neighborhoods: Rescuing Food and Strengthening Communities
The innovative Nourishing Our Neighborhoods program tackles food insecurity and food waste simultaneously. Whole Foods Market donates refrigerated vans to community-based food rescue organizations. These vans are game-changers, significantly expanding an organization’s capacity to efficiently collect and distribute surplus food from various sources to individuals and families in need. Each donated van possesses the remarkable capability to rescue over one million pounds of food annually, translating to more than $866,000 worth of meals per year. This program not only provides access to nutritious whole foods but also strengthens the infrastructure of local food rescue networks.
Read more about our partners and program.
Through these multifaceted Community Giving programs, Whole Foods Market demonstrates a deep and ongoing commitment to creating healthier, more resilient communities. By focusing on whole foods and supporting initiatives that nourish both people and the planet, Whole Foods Market actively embodies its mission to be a force for good in every neighborhood it serves.
