“Better food and better lives is what Stop & Shop is all about”

Stop & Shop is the presenting sponsor for Will Bike 4 Food. The retailer’s has a longstanding commitment to addressing food insecurity in Western Massachusetts. The Mobile Food Bank is funded in part by the Stop & Shop Family Foundation and Stop & Shop customers have provided thousands of meals in the region through the Friends & Family campaign.

Jasen Hodge, Store Manager for the Stop & Shop in Northampton explains why Stop & Shop and its regional employees are committed to supporting Will Bike 4 Food.

Food Bank: Stop & Shop has been a presenting sponsor of Will Bike 4 Food for many years. What inspires their continued commitment? 

Jasen Hodge: Helping to make sure all our neighbors can enjoy better food and better lives is so important to Stop & Shop. The Food Bank of Western Mass has done such amazing work to help those in great need throughout the pandemic. So many have faced food insecurity for the first time in their lives over the past year, and we are committed to helping the food bank provide access to wholesome meals to those in need.

FB: Stop & Shop also supports The Food Bank’s direct to client programs, like the Mobile Food Bank. What do you think is important about getting out in the community? 

JH: Food is the backdrop to the story of our lives. When customers walk into our stores, they are looking to create the moments and memories for their families. When members of the community are facing the challenges of food insecurity, we want to be sure their lives are also filled with moments of happiness. Knowing that all members of the community can rely on Stop & Shop for food, whether they’re purchasing it in our stores or receiving it via donation from the food bank, is something we have been and will continue to be committed to.

FB: This year’s WB4F features the Ride and Seek community challenge and there is a Stop & Shop base on the route, what would you say to cyclists interested in participating?

JH: Whether you need a quick water break, need a protein hit or just want to snag a quick selfie, our stores in Hadley and Northampton welcome all cyclists this Ride & Seek!

FB: What is Stop & Shop’s goal in supporting Will Bike 4 Food?

JH: Helping people enjoy better food and better lives are what Stop & Shop is all about. Hitting personal records and extra miles is how so many define making their lives better, and it makes supporting Will Bike 4 Food even that more rewarding.

FB: What are you most looking forward to about this year’s event being able to be fully in-person?

JH: The last year has been the most challenging year that most of us will experience in our lives. Being able to join together and feel the electricity of the community spirit is so exciting. We truly cannot wait to support and join in on the race!

Register to ride in Will Bike 4 Food.