Panera announced partnerships with the Children’s Hunger Alliance (CHA) and the USDA to feed children in need during the pandemic. The fast-casual chain, through its franchise partners in Ohio, will provide freshly prepared meals to the CHA for vulnerable children. Panera is also working with the USDA to scale the model with other states across the nation.
”At Panera, we believe that good food should be accessible to all. This belief is central to our culture and our mission,” said Niren Chaudhary, Panera CEO. “Today, more than ever, it is clear to us that access to nutritious food is an undeniable right – especially to those most vulnerable, such as children, during this time of crisis. We are grateful for the opportunity to support our communities.”
The Panera-provided CHA meals include an assortment of healthy options including salad, sandwiches, and veggie snack boxes. Panera notes it balances the meals per USDA guidance to include dairy, lean protein, whole grains, fruits and vegetables. Panera is offering the meals at extreme discount to align with current USDA school food prices.
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The Panera and CHA meal partnership will kick off in Ohio on April 6th. In a statement, Panera indicated the chain is ready to assist other states and communities as well. Panera is encouraging in-need, non-profits, or state governments to contact the company at schoolmeals@panerabread.com.”This is our Panera family in action,” Chaudhary said. “They are our associates, guests and communities, working together as only they can to help those facing hunger during this challenging time. While always making the health, safety and overall well-being of our family a top priority, Panera will do its best to help the hungry in this time of need.”
