Kroger’s Mid-Atlantic Division is taking a small step toward healthier children.
The 121 stores are giving fruit to children under the age of 12, one for each visit. Children select from bananas, apples or citrus-item.
“Giving children fruit is one way to encourage children to begin healthy eating habits at a young age,” said Allison McGee, corporate affairs manager for Kroger’s Mid-Atlantic Division.
Mid-Atlantic Kroger stores have set up a child-size display so children can select their fruit. “We hope parents will take advantage of the free fruit to talk with their children about the importance of healthy eating at an early age,” McGee added.
“Keeping a small offering of fruit in front of children at meals or snack times encourages them to try eating fruit,” said McGee. “But often it takes time.”
McGee also said it may make the shopping experience more pleasant for parents. “All parents know what it’s like when their kids scream for candy while they are in the store. Perhaps the fruit will help a little.”
Kroger’s Mid-Atlantic Division has 121 stores in Virginia, West Virginia, North Carolina and the Johnson City/Kingsport in east Tennessee, Belpre, Marietta and Proctorville in Ohio, and Russell and Ashland Kentucky.
The Mid-Atlantic Division operates 121 stores, 119 pharmacies and 93 fuel centers in Virginia, West Virginia, North Carolina, Tennessee, Kentucky and Ohio. Headquartered in Roanoke, the Mid-Atlantic Division is dedicated to making a difference in the communities it serves by supporting hunger relief, women’s health, our troops and their families, and local schools and grassroots organizations.
Kroger is also a strong supporter of the Salvation Army, American Red Cross and organizations that promote the advancement of women and minorities. Fortune magazine named Kroger the “most generous company in America” and The Reputation Institute ranked Kroger among the Top 100 of America’s Most Reputable Companies. For more information, visit www.kroger.com.